April 18: Our Source of Identity
Scripture reading: Luke 9:23–26
Key verse: Luke 9:24
For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.
Teenagers often search for identity through role models such as actors and sports figures. However, these may be the very people whose lives are coming apart at the seams. Adults do the same thing, only they are more likely to seek self-gratification through financial gain and social position.
Because we are Christians, our only true source of identity is Jesus Christ. He is our example for successful living. Searching for this in another person or social position leads only to disappointment. But many who profess to know Jesus as their Savior refuse to acknowledge Him as Lord over every area of their lives. Attitudes such as pride, selfishness, greed, and materialism arise from hearts that are not fully committed to Christ. Jesus made it clear that in order for us to save our lives, we must be willing to lose them unto Him (Luke 9:24).
Peter reminded us that we are really aliens, strangers to this world because of our love and devotion to Jesus Christ. Therefore, we are not to seek gratification in temporal pleasures. God chose us to know Him and to experience the wonder of His mercy and grace. Our identity is secure because of who lives inside us and not who we are.
Have you settled the identity issue? If not, ask God to reveal the areas in your life that lack true commitment to Him.
Father,
Be Lord over every area of my life. Reveal areas of my life where I lack true commitment and help me to surrender them to You.