Thank you for asking about such an important topic.
The identity question can be confusing because it can mean many things to different people. For example, if someone asks, "what is your identity?" many people may not know what to say. So let's simplify.
The identity question is basically, "who do you believe you are?" It is our answer to when we meet someone, and they ask, "who are you?" or say, "tell me about yourself."
As the complexity of the question, the answer is often not as easy to formulate. How do you respond when people ask about who you are?
In most non-third world countries, people tend to stick to their professions. I am a doctor, a lawyer, a chef, or a police officer. Some people associate themselves with their relationships, such as John's mom or Mary's husband. Some point to achievements such as a marathon runner, a mountain climber, or a certified _____.
At times, these may be appropriate introductions. However, our answer to who we are answers how we view ourselves, in other words, our self-worth. In the above example, we can see that the person places their self-worth in being a doctor or associated with someone.
The problem with seeing ourselves through the lens of professions, relationships, or achievements is that they are all transitory. For example, one day, you may be an engineer, but you may no longer have an identity when you retire or leave the profession. The same goes for people who cling to their achievements, education, and other things the world may look at. When someone else trumps their achievements, is more educated, or is from a more prestigious school, they may feel worthless. When the man's girlfriend to whom he placed his self-worth breaks his heart, he may feel there is no longer a reason for life since his identity no longer exists.
The business world makes money based on the insecurities of people. They say people are not good enough until they use their product. The marketing world may show fit models and suggest, why don't you become more like them? You are not good enough. People may place their identities on transitory views of others and have fluctuating perceptions about who they are.
So then, what is a true identity? Our self-worth must stand on something unchanging over time. It is not dependent on what others may think or on transitory achievements.
Only God and His Word are firm and do not change across the ages. That unchanging identity and self-worth are what Christians have. That is from where I believe your question roots.
Though we can refer to many Scriptural references, here are two verses that may capture the main point:
1Peter 2:9-10 (NLT)
9But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 10Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God's people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God's mercy.
Consider these unchanging truths for those who are Christians.
As opposed to the changing dependence many people may have, Christians can cling to the unchanging truth that they are chosen, royal, holy, God's, and recipients of mercy.
Chosen means it is not about us but that God has decided to welcome us. Instead of our decision to earn acceptance, we are accepted by God. It does not depend on our works or accomplishments; but instead, we are accepted by God by His decision. Contrast this to many people, especially those of different faiths, who believe they need to strive and accomplish something to find acceptance.
Royal means we are kings, queens, princes, and princesses. We are given the royal lineage, responsibilities, and stature. What the world may see and call us today does not change our actual status.
Holy means that we are separated. We are not like the rest of the world because God has separated us from them. It refers to God's calling and the faith He has given us.
God's people mean we forever belong to God. We are part of God's family. He protects us, and He guides us. We never need to worry about our needs or the direction we are going.
Recipients of mercy refer to the fact that we did not deserve this acceptance, but we have this identity because of God's love and compassion.
Our identity in Christ is unchanging, and it comes from God. Those who belong to Christ can be firm in their self-worth and fearlessly answer the question, "who are you?"
Many blessings!
Des Moines, IA
