Pastor Travis Burkett
Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
Let me ask, "Who are you?" When someone is asked this question, the first thing that typically comes to mind is a duty or role they perform each day. You know, things like youth pastor, doctor, nurse, construction worker, dentist, etc. The reality is, that’s not who we are; that’s what we do.
Craig Groeshel said, “Being consumed by what people think of you is the fastest way to forget what God thinks of you.”
It’s honestly understandable that our instant instinct is to explain to someone what we do rather than who we are. We are quick to be defined by our skills or what give value/time. Whether we like it or not, these things can’t define us. When we try, it only brings a life filled with little contentment and always striving for the next breath of acceptance. 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new Creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.” When our life is in Christ, we hold a new purpose much greater than an occupation or a hobby.
As followers of Jesus, the Bible says that our identity comes from who we are in Christ. It’s not about how others define us, yet so often we live our lives as if our neighbor's words hold greater value than God’s. I think about what the Bible says in 1 Samuel 16:7, ”But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” See, it’s not about what we have or what we do; it’s all about the work God has done in our heart. When Christ has done a work in you, He will define you.
If you’ve never understood who you are in Jesus, let me encourage you that the God of Heaven defines your life. He calls you: His child (John 1:12), forgiven (Ephesians 4:32), into His family (Ephesians 1:5), His workmanship (Ephesians 2:10), set apart (1 Peter 2:9), valuable (Luke 12:6-7), loved (John 3:16), accepted (Romans 15:7), more than a conqueror (John 8:37), and a citizen of Heaven (Philippians 3:20). Friend, knowing who you are in Christ is essential for your walk with Christ. When you learn who you are in Jesus, you’ll know what to do for Jesus.
May we know who we are, and the fact is, we are God's!