From personality tests to TikTok trends, we’re living in a world where finding our ‘true selves’ is as easy as a tap and a swipe. But there’s a deeper truth waiting to be discovered. The Bible reminds us that we’re all made in God’s image, each carrying a unique reflection of His goodness.
In a world where the past often seems to define us, it’s important to remember that our true identity is rooted not in material history, but in our spiritual relationship with God. This is a comforting reminder that no matter what our earthly experiences have been—be it challenges with family, education, health, or past mistakes—we are not bound by them.
As II Corinthians 5:17 tells us, “if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This scripture reassures us that in Christ, we are renewed and redefined.
The Transformative Power of Being ‘In Christ’
Being ‘in Christ’ means more than just a phrase; it implies a deep union with Christ Jesus. Jesus, embodying the Christ, showed us through his ministry that our true nature is spiritual, reflecting God’s eternal goodness. This union with Christ allows us to see beyond material limitations and understand our true identity as God defines it, not as the world does. Mary Baker Eddy, in her work “Retrospection and Introspection,” affirms this by stating that our material history is just a dream and not our true existence.
Embracing Our Spiritual Identity
Turning away from a materially based self-perception opens the path to recognizing ourselves and others as the image and likeness of God. This spiritual understanding grants us the liberty to start anew, free from the shackles of past mistakes or misidentifications. It’s not about ignoring wrongdoing, but rather providing a foundation for correction and growth, rooted in our inherent goodness as God’s creation.
The Christ Principle in Action
The Christ principle, the divine expression of God’s love, guides us away from a material view of our history toward our true spiritual identity. This is beautifully illustrated in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), where the son’s journey from recklessness to repentance and ultimately to redemption mirrors our own spiritual journey back to God. The father’s unconditional love in the parable symbolizes God’s unending love for us, always ready to welcome us back, irrespective of our past.
Living Our True Identity
As we embrace our spiritual identity, governed by God’s laws, our lives begin to reflect the harmony and peace of God’s kingdom. The promise of II Corinthians 5:17, where “all things are become new,” becomes a reality in our lives. In God’s eyes, we are not defined by our material history but by our spiritual truth. This understanding brings a sense of peace and purpose, as we live out our lives as reflections of God’s love, guided by His eternal principles.