Read: 2 Corinthians 5:15-17
Here’s an image to consider: think about the day you accepted your first job or got a promotion. With a new title, your identity in your workplace changed. There were new responsibilities, new expectations, and perhaps even a new way you perceived yourself.
When we accept Jesus into our lives, we experience something similar but on a much deeper and more profound level. We become new creations. Our past mistakes, failures, or sins no longer define us. We have new identities: we become children of God.
The transformative power of this new identity can’t be overstated. Our new identity in Christ is foundational to understanding our relationship with God and our journey toward change. When we feel inadequate, let’s remind ourselves that we are God’s beloved children. When we’re tempted to fall back into old habits, let’s remember that we’re new creations in Christ. Our identity doesn’t rest on what we do but on what Christ has done for us.
This concept parallels James Clear’s discussion on identity in his book Atomic Habits. He writes, “The most practical way to change who you are is to change what you do. Each action you perform is driven by the fundamental belief that it is possible.” Just like Clear’s insight into our habits shaping our identity, our spiritual habits or disciplines also help reinforce our new identity in Christ. Praying, reading God’s Word, and worshiping affirm who we are in Christ and help us live out our new identity.
But here’s the catch: understanding this new identity isn’t an intellectual exercise. It’s something we need to embrace and internalize. It’s about allowing this truth to permeate every part of our being — our thoughts, emotions, decisions, and actions.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean to you that you are a new creation in Christ?
- How has your life changed since accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
- What areas of your life do you need to surrender to God to embrace your new identity in Him fully?