One of the ways that our progressive, western culture has been permeating the lives of youth in the last few years is by trying to rewrite their identities. Society says you can choose who you want to be; anything goes and if it makes you happy, then that’s what is good and right for you.
But God says differently. The Bible says that we have died to sin, so we should no longer walk in its ways. We are a new creation, and our IDENTITY is in CHRIST. We are beloved children of God. Loved unconditionally. God defines you and he rejoices over you with gladness.( Zeph. 3:17)
Do not let the world around you dictate who you are or let your past keep you from moving forward in the newness that Christ died to give you. His grace is enough to cover all our fears and failures - past, present and future.
God has done the work – when Christ gave his life willingly for us on the cross, he said, “It is FINISHED.” There is nothing we can or need to do to earn our salvation. But we are called to “work it out,” (Phil. 2:12-13) which calls us to action. Make room for God in your heart and in your life. Turn your thoughts to Him. As my mother always reminded us growing up, what goes in is what comes out. Listen to Christian music, podcasts and sermons. Be in the Word. Make time to pray and speak with God. Seek accountability and godly fellowship with others. Get baptized. Be obedient to His calling for your life. God has given us everything we need to walk in our new identity, but it doesn’t happen by accident. The Spirit of God is working in us to change our hearts of stone and bring our desires into alignment with the will of God. Don’t miss out on the riches of God’s goodness and love by settling for the things of this world.
Remind yourself today, just as Allen does each morning, “I am a beloved child of God,” and let His be the voice you listen to and follow all your days.