Finding Your True Identity in Christ: Breaking Free from Lies That Define You
- Erin Schwab
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Identity Series #3
Who does God say I am? Who do I think I am? Am I what I believe about myself—or what I think others believe about me?
These are deep, defining questions that shape how we live. In a world driven by comparison, performance, and curated images, it’s easy to let identity be molded by outside voices or inner shame. But for those who belong to Jesus, there’s a better way.
The Struggle for Identity Is Real
How often do we let our past mistakes, family background, social status, or career define us? How many of us compare ourselves daily to the filtered lives we see on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook? Or let our emotions—fleeting and fickle—drive our thoughts and actions like the engine of a runaway train?
If you’ve ever asked, “Who am I, really?”—you’re not alone.
Created in God's Image
The Bible begins with this truth: you are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). That means your value, dignity, and purpose are inherent—not earned. You were created to reflect God’s character and bring Him glory.
This happens most beautifully when we live out Jesus’ greatest commandment:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength… and love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30–31).
This is a fixed identity:God is the Creator. You are His beloved creation.
Broken by the Fall
But the story doesn’t stop at creation. The Fall introduced sin into the human heart, turning us inward. Instead of centering our lives on God, we placed ourselves at the center—and broke fellowship with Him. As a result, we inherited an identity of sinner and spiritually dead (Romans 3:23).
On our own, we are condemned, separated from the God who made us.
Redeemed by Grace Through Christ
Here’s the good news: God didn’t leave us in that broken state. Through Jesus, redemption is possible. When we place our faith in Christ, our sins are forgiven, and our identity is transformed. We move from condemned to redeemed, from orphan to beloved child of God.
And this identity is not based on our performance but on Jesus’ finished work on the cross.
Living from Your Identity in Christ
If you belong to Jesus, your identity is secure:
You are righteous, holy, accepted, and loved (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 1:4–7).
You are no longer identified by your sin but by what Christ has done on your behalf.
You are united with Jesus, and what is true of Him is now true of you.
Though we still stumble and struggle, the Holy Spirit is at work within us—transforming us into Christ’s likeness. This process is lifelong, but the outcome is guaranteed.
Why It Matters: Living as a Beloved, Not an Orphan
This gospel identity changes everything:
How we view our past
How we relate to others
How we respond to failure
How we deal with shame and insecurity
Living From Your Identity in Christ
If you belong to Jesus, your identity is secure:
You are righteous, holy, accepted, and loved (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 1:4–7).
You are no longer identified by your sin but by what Christ has done on your behalf.
You are united with Jesus, and what is true of Him is now true of you.
Though we still stumble and struggle, the Holy Spirit is at work within us—transforming us into Christ’s likeness. This process is lifelong, but the outcome is guaranteed.
How Living as God’s Beloved Child Changes Everything
Understanding your gospel identity doesn’t just reshape your theology—it reshapes your entire way of being. Here are a few real-life ways it makes a difference:
✅ From Performing to Resting
A woman who used to hustle for approval at work and in ministry learns to serve from peace, not pressure. She’s not trying to prove herself—she knows she’s already loved.
✅ From Shame to Freedom
A man with a painful past finally steps out of hiding. Because his identity is in Christ, not in his sin, he begins to walk in freedom and share his story with others.
✅ From Comparison to Contentment
A mom scrolling social media no longer sees other women as competition. Her worth is not measured by pictures or perfection—it’s rooted in her Father’s delight.
✅ From Anxiety to Peace
A student overwhelmed by future decisions now rests in God’s providence. Her value isn’t tied to outcomes, but to being securely held in Christ.
✅ From Retaliation to Grace
A betrayed friend finds strength to forgive. Instead of seeking revenge, he responds from the mercy he himself has received.
✅ From Fear of Man to Boldness
A teenage girl afraid to speak truth now finds courage. She knows she’s already approved by God, so she can speak with love and boldness—even when it’s unpopular.
Why It Matters: Living as the Beloved, Not an Orphan
Your true identity in Christ offers unshakable security, worth, and direction. You are not who the world says you are. You are not who your feelings say you are. You are who God says you are: His redeemed, beloved, and chosen child.
But what happens when we forget this truth? What happens when we live like orphans—striving for approval, fearing rejection, and doubting our place in God’s family? (That’s exactly what we’ll explore in the next post:“Are You Living Like an Orphan? How Forgetting Your Identity in Christ Sabotages Your Life.” Discover how the orphan mindset quietly sabotages our joy, relationships, and trust in God—and how living as God’s beloved can set you free.)
What About You?
Are you living from the truth of your identity in Christ—or are you still measuring your worth by what others think, what you've done, or how you feel?
If you're tired of carrying the weight of uncertainty, performance, or comparison, you don’t have to walk that road alone. I offer gospel-centered coaching designed to help you uncover the lies, embrace the truth of who you are in Christ, and walk confidently in your God-given identity.
Click here to schedule a free discovery call and take your first step toward living as God’s beloved. Let’s journey together.
Scripture resources: Ephesians 1; Genesis 1:26; Psalm 8:5; Genesis 3; John 3:16; Romans 4; Hebrews 10:14; Titus 2:11-14
Comments