Identity

Each person sees themselves in some unique way. We dress ourselves in ways to reflect our personal desire about how others see us. Perhaps we dress for a day working in the yard or garden. Perhaps on another day, we wear a uniform and cleats. As Christians, we have a specific identity, we are God’s child. At times we are asked for many reasons to prove our identity, perhaps this is a passport for international travel or simply a driver’s license for purchasing medicines, or even a certification for the task they are about to perform for us. Beneath question is another concern, who are you? While we could list characteristics and qualities that reflect our true selves, the ultimate identity that matters is that the Holy Spirit lives within us. The Spirit is our mark of true identity (Romans 8:9), our seal (Eph. 1:13). And when the Spirit is present, the characteristics and qualities of our lives will reflect the identity of Jesus in us. Perhaps it is a bit unique, but we are members of God’s kingdom and we must consider how other people view this. A key to our actions should be as Paul described himself to the Corinthian family, “We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: ... in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; - 2 Cor. 6:3-6 (NIV)