Identity - Who Are You?

When we relate with the Lord one thing that feeds our stability and dependability on Him is the confidence we have in His promises. His promises have been tested and proven over time and so, His track record gives us peace of mind. The word of God has made sufficient provision for us to understand ourselves from the kingdom perspective. A proper understanding of ourselves is required as we relate. Meaning, it is to your benefit and the benefit of the one with whom you relate, to give proper attention to yourself, in order to build up yourself as a relational being.

It is important to be a student of yourself because it helps you define your boundaries, in terms of lifestyle, purpose, companionship, fellowship, values and more. I can guarantee you that if you do not set aside time to allow the Holy Spirit to work on you, you will encounter a series of failed relationships and hurts. The word of God is a great source to help you in the process.

Let’s continue our studies by answering some questions from a scriptural perspective about ourselves as we prepare ourselves to properly relate with others.

Have you ever asked yourself “Who Am I?” It is a very simple, yet a very defining question at the same time. The question of “Who Am I? Is a question of Identity. Prior to getting into any relationship, it is imperative that you get clarity on this aspect. Although so much can be said about identity, I will like us to get a head start in the right direction.

Ruth 3:9a (NKJV)

And he said, “Who are you?” So she answered, “I am Ruth, your maidservant.

Emphasis Mine

Besides knowing your name (which is part of your identity), what else about yourself do you know? When we read the account of Jesus and His disciples from Matthew 16:13-18; Jesus inquired from His disciples who people say that He is. Then He later inquired from the disciples saying “Who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter responded saying, you are the Messiah, the son of the living God (verse 16). So much can be learned about the aspect of identity from a kingdom perspective.

i)                We understand that Jesus was in a relationship with His disciples and it was important to Him that they know who He is. Meaning, knowing and establishing your identity in a relationship is important.

ii)              Apart from your name, knowing that you are the son or daughter of the living God is also very important. Simon Peter said you are the Messiah, the Son of the living God (verse 16).

iii)            Identity is the present state of your being; not the past nor the future. There is a place for your past and the ambitions of your future, however, when you get into a relationship, the person relating with you begins by relating to your present. “You are the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). I am Ruth… (Ruth 3:9).

iv)            An identity independent of God is a false identity. We can only know ourselves through God and by His help because He created us. Simon Peter said, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16).

As we ponder on these truths about relationship and more, understand that who you are is different from what you do. Do not identify yourself by what you do but rather, who God says you are. Amen.