Take Another Look
Yielding to God’s Truth as He Defines Me
When I swipe through the many pictures on my phone, I revisit sweet moments that I vowed to never forget: my son’s first ride without training wheels; my girls dancing in their favorite princess dresses; and the surprise anniversary getaway. I sigh deeply, knowing all too well that our weeks are jam-packed with practices, rehearsals, and appointments. A silent scolding begins. I’ve got to stay focused on what’s important! When did I become so distracted? Is this even the best version of me?
My expectations and the outcomes aren’t always synonymous. The person I intend to be clashes with the version that shows up most days. I’ll hear that sweet woman talking patiently nearby, or that understanding mom listening with compassion as her toddler protests loudly at the checkout counter. With everything in me, I want to respond like them, or better yet, just like Jesus. I know it’s possible, but when will my fruits ripen? When I measure my identity against others, or my own expectations, I usually find disappointment. And almost instantly, I’m invited to a private pity party. Will I accept these inviting lies of regret, shortcomings, and fear that I’ve probably ruined relationships already?
No. That’s not the voice of truth.
God has given all of us a glorious set of sophisticated traits that were intended to flourish as we follow His design and grow to reflect his image. What does this look like in me? I have to choose. I choose to remind myself daily of all that I am because of Jesus. What he finished on the cross was all for my new identity! The old me is no more! I find the real me in Scripture. Most days, I carry His promises tucked carefully in my heart. Other days, I rely on sticky notes posted all across my desk, on mirrors, and even in my car to remind me that God’s promises are indeed TRUE.
I find a wonderful description of truth in Ephesians 1. I will reflect this list when I believe it’s true and then practice making it my new perspective. I still have to remind myself, “I am chosen, holy and blameless,” even if it’s easier to react with frustration. I may default to old habits like complaining, worrying, and making hasty decisions. Again, I hear that whisper, “I’m a new creation in Christ.” I feel like the one in James 1:24 who sees herself in the mirror, but then walks away, forgetting what she looks like.
Wait. Deep breaths. Exhale. Look again at what is true.
My identity is defined by faith in God’s truth. To renew my mind, I yield to the truth: “I am redeemed, forgiven, and lavished by his grace.” (Ephesians 1:7-8) Transformation naturally occurs the more I yield and choose to walk like God’s promises. This is what establishes and reinforces my true identity in Christ. And, I’m sure I will overreact again or probably miss the mark. I am still His child. I can look again in God’s mirror of loving-kindness and compassion. Every time I take another look, I’ll see more of Jesus in me—growing, transforming, becoming.
Reflection
1. Why do you suppose it’s easy to forget what we see about ourselves in Scripture?
2. What distracts some women from walking in their true identity?
3. What are your go-to Bible verses that reinforce your identity?
Goals
Read the description of promises found in Ephesians 1. List 3 that resonate with you, and make them part of your daily reminders and prayer time.
This means that anyone who belongs in Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun. (II Corinthians 5:17 NLT)
All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ…
(Ephesians 1:3-5 NLT)
For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
(James 1:24-25 NLT))