The World's Empty PromisesSample

Identity

We have a Position Based Identity – our sense of self-worth should come from understanding who we are in Christ. Idols are replaced; instead of looking for achievement to define us, we should look to Christ and the unchangeable nature of what He has done for us.

We still work hard, we still care about results; but our identity is not wrapped up in what we accomplish. We are more than our giftedness. We are more than the title on our office or the company we work for. Because our identity or self-worth is not up for grabs, we can deal more objectively in difficult situations. We can serve the needs of others with selflessness, because we are not consumed with growing self-esteem. Our identity comes from our position in Christ – and that is secure and beautiful. Psalm 139:14 says, “We are fearfully and wonderfully made”. We are loved, treasured and valued by the Creator of the universe – our value is not based on our success at all.

What we worship shapes who we are, and Psalm 115:4-8 tells us that we become just like the idols we make, and so do those who trust in them.

The prophet Jeremiah said a similar thing: Jeremiah 2:5 “What wrong did your fathers find in me that they went far from me, and went after worthlessness, and became worthless?” Jesus said in Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

If we worship money – we’ll become greedy. If we worship accomplishment, we’ll become restless and frantic. If we worship love and acceptance, we’ll become a slave to others. Chasing after anything other than the true God will make us something other than what God created us to be.

What is our purpose? Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6 (NIV)

Reflection: Do you like who you are? Do you like the person you are becoming? If not – what or who is on the throne of your heart?