God Gives Us Our Identity

 In the face of mockery and false accusation, the hardest things to stay focused on are our identity, and our purpose in life. When Jesus was dying on the cross, laying down His life voluntarily for the sins of all people, many were standing around His cross insulting and mocking Him. 

Those who passed by hurled insults at him … In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. In the same way the rebels who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.  (Matthew 27:41-42a, 44 NIV)

I think most of us would have said, “Forget this,” and come off the cross or at least called out for those false accusers to be severely punished. But not Jesus! He knew who He was, and that His Heavenly Father loved Him completely, and He was willing to fulfill His Father’s divine purpose for mankind. 

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.  (Hebrews 12:2-3 NIV)

 If we will take time with God each day, reflect on how much we are loved by Him, and enthusiastically fulfill His plan and purpose for our lives, we will be able to do things that amaze us as well as those around us. We will have peace and a sense of well-being as we experience our identity in Christ Jesus.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Help me to know and hold fast to my identity in You, and to remain committed to Your plans for me in this day, and every day. I give my desire for praise, and my fear of accusation and condemnation to You.  Remind me today of who You say that I am.  Restore my sense of purpose and root me in Your love.  Amen

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