“So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away—look, what is new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17
Who do you think you are?
The way that question is asked can either cause us to stop and think, or immediately make us feel defensive. The world is going to ask it in a way that makes us doubt our identity, our purpose, and the truth about who God says we are. It might make us feel like we’re doing something wrong, in the wrong place at the wrong time, or acting in a way that goes against the expectations of the people around us.
As we take the next few weeks to study our identity in Christ, my prayer is that you would not only understand in your mind the truth that we’ll be learning, but deeply and confidently accept it in your heart. With all the love in the world, hear me ask you gently, “Who do you think you are?” Ask God to help you unravel who your friends, family, and culture say you are from who He says you are so you can confidently embrace your identity in Christ.
The reality is, the expectations and preferences of our culture are constantly changing. What is celebrated one moment is replaced by whatever is newer, shinier, and more exciting. Fitting into the world means hiding parts of ourselves that were beautifully designed by God. We were created for more!
Let’s commit to making some simple swaps over the next few weeks so we can become women who live fully and abundantly as Christ intended.
The world says our past defines us. Christ says we are a new creation.
The world says our mistakes make us who we are. Christ says we are made righteous in Him.
The world says nothing is permanent. Christ says we are sealed as His forever.
The world says we are on our own. Christ says we are rescued, adopted, and chosen.
The world says following God is limiting. Christ says we are free.
The world says we have to fight for our place at the table. Christ invites us in and receives us.
The world says we are misunderstood. Christ says we are known completely by God.
The world says we were a mistake. Christ says we were made on purpose for a purpose.
The world says we can’t do it. Christ promises to equip us for the work He has for us.
The world says we can’t win. Christ says we are more than conquerors.
I hope our verse in 2 Corinthians today is encouraging to you. Maybe you’re thinking these truths above are great for other people, but you just can’t imagine that they apply to your life. Read the first part of our verse again: if anyone is in Christ. It doesn’t say “only those who work in ministry” or “just the people who haven’t messed up” or “only the ones who have their lives together.” There is no qualification that says we’re a new creation only when our family accepts it, or that we have to earn it through the work we do or the titles we hold.
When we accept Christ as our Savior, we are made new. Lay down your old ways of thinking, the identity you carried around because someone else declared it for you, the doubts and disbelief that have kept you from breaking free and living fully as a daughter of God. Make our verse today personal:
“So then, if [insert your name] is in Christ, [insert your name] is a new creation; what is old has passed away—look, what is new has come!”
In Christ, you are a new creation!
Week 1 Challenge:
In Christ, you are a new creation! This week, record all the ways you have seen God renew your life and make you a new creation in Christ. Ask God to reveal His work in you as you seek Him this week.
Week 1 Reading Plan
Week 1 Memory Verse
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Thank you for making a difference. I’m struggling just to get out of the car to walk to a bathroom. I need the support and I need help. My daughter has been talking to me over messenger and the devil is constantly making my life miserable because I allow it. I’m not sure what my next step is.
Oh dear! I am sorry for your situation. Today, I pray that God sends you help. I pray He shows up for you in ways you could never imagine. God bless you sister.