2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
Identity crisis is a period of time where individuals struggle to understand their purpose, self-worth and values. It is a normal part of development especially during the formative years but this is evolving to be a major issue with technological advancement. In the 21st century, people spend more time with gadgets rather than family, friends or community. As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17). The size of the family unit has shrunk. Statistics say that 25–30% of the children are raised by solo parents; 70–80% are dysfunctional families and 33% violent homes. An unhealthy environment has hindered the development of identity in a large portion of the global population today.
Identity plays a crucial role in character development, yet has been largely ignored by society. The home of the first twins, Esau and Jacob, was dysfunctional as the father, Isaac, loved his firstborn more while the mother, Rebecca was partial to the second born. Hence, the identity of these two twins was underdeveloped. One turned out to be a rebel and the other a deceiver. Esau found his identity as a “hunter” to please his father and Jacob found his identity as a “baker” to appease his mother. The boys grew up, and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country, while Jacob was content to stay at home among the tents (Genesis 25:27). They professionalized their skills and scrambled their identity on it.
Our achievements, accolades or awards do not define us. Our work, workmanship or wisdom is not our identity. Our identity is in Christ Jesus. We are the children of the King of kings.
Who Are You?
1. Skill-set: Skills are to bless others and not to promote ourselves. They do not delineate our identity.
2. Success: Success does not make us superior nor does our failure make us losers. Our success/failure does not change our heritage as His children.
3. Significance: Understanding our identity will shape our purpose and significance.
We are adopted into the Family of God as the King’s kids.
Prayer: Father God, open my eyes to see my identity in you. Uproot any dysfunction of my past that infiltrates my character. Amen.
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