Identity in Christ
by Michael Lennox
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
How often do you dwell on your mistakes? If you’re anything like high school Michael, then probably a lot! Not all of us are wired the same way, but there seems to be a common thread during the teenage years of being hyper aware of the things we aren’t proud of and then dwelling on those things. This awareness can often lead to a spiral of guilt and shame, resulting in feeling pretty down in the dumps.
I remember a season during high school when I had a lot on my plate. On top of a full schedule, I was deep in a season of habitual sin. Rather than opening up to anyone about what I was going through and seeking help, I internalized it all and began to believe that I was broken beyond repair. I started thinking thoughts like “you can’t share about ______ because no one else would understand or they would look at you differently” and “you’re worthless - you can’t even keep it together for one day” and “you’re disgusting - God couldn’t possibly love you”. Dark, right?
It was during this time of darkness in my heart that I desperately sought out any sort of hope in the Lord. I read the Bible a little bit growing up, but I didn’t have much of a grasp of it. So, I started a Bible reading plan and stumbled across Galatians 2:20. I read it once and I was floored. I read it again and let what I was reading sink in. This verse hit me hard because it was a shocking reminder about my identity and position before God.
In Galatians 2:20 and throughout Scripture, we learn that the believer has a new identity in Christ. Gone are the days of identity-seeking in other things such as athletic ability, intellect, sexuality, musical talent, or any other human skill. These things that we use to define our identities most often become idols and distractions from who we are in Christ. So what is my identity according to this verse? “It is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me.”
This verse also speaks to the believer’s position before God. Reread the verse and you will see that our new God-given identity of Christ living in us also leads to a new position before God - forgiven. Romans 6:6 says, “We know that our old man was crucified with him so that the body of sin would no longer dominate us, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.”
In both of these verses we see the love of Christ displayed in the fact that he loved you and I enough to die for our sins, providing us with secure identity and secure standing before God. We are free from the bondage of sin and shame that bind us in darkness. God has given us new life in Christ.
So when I find myself thinking dark thoughts about my identity and scared to share with someone about my struggles, I can be comforted knowing that “it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me.” And God promises that “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
REFLECTION:
Read Galatians 2:20 a couple of times. Now, grab a sticky note or a piece of paper and write it out in full so that you can easily post it somewhere you will see often as a reminder of your position & identity in Christ.
Next, read Romans 6 at least twice through in its entirety. Underline any repeated words, phrases, or ideas. Write down any notes, questions, or observations that you have as you go through the 2nd time.
What are some examples of things that you put your identity in other than Christ?
What is a specific sin struggle that you are facing right now? Any dark thoughts or things that bring you shame that you haven’t shared with someone else? Write them down & share them with a trusted friend or mentor.
Have you confessed your sin and need for a Savior to Jesus? Even if you have before, confessing our sins to the Lord should be a regular practice. Spend some time in prayer now confessing your sin and praying for forgiveness.