...SO...
Ever notice the difference one little word can make? When I asked my wife to marry me, she said “yes” instead of “no,” and my life was forever changed. Or, if someone pays you a compliment, and then adds the word “but,” what’s almost certainly going to follow? Probably a statement that negates their adulation.
How often do we overlook some of the small words in the Bible? Those small words can reveal hidden treasure. On the final night of his life, Jesus dined with his apostles at the Last Supper. John 13:3-5 reads, “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; SO he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet.”
Did you see it? “…SO…” That little word explains a lot. Because Jesus understood his identity—who he was, where he came from, and where he was going—he was able to perform the lowliest task: wash his disciples’ feet. None of them were willing to undertake this disgusting chore, because they failed to see themselves as God saw them.
His identity-confidence enabled Jesus to withstand every sort of abuse and torture imaginable. Likewise, knowing who we are in relation to Christ empowers us to handle criticism, insults, and demeaning tasks. Of course it can hurt, but it doesn’t destroy us. We don’t wallow in it, if we return to the place of allowing God to define us. Understanding our identity enables us to serve others, without fearing that it “makes us look bad.” We don’t need to impress anyone or seek their approval, because God already approves of us—and His opinion is the only one which matters.
Self-pity, victimization and low self-esteem fade away, when we’re anchored in our God-given identity. But when we’re unclear on how much we’re loved and valued by our Father, our wounded ego slides us into insecurity faster than an Olympic bobsled.
That’s why it’s so, so important to remember our identity and live in it. I am a beloved child of the Creator. I am one with my Savior. I am righteous and redeemed forever. SO… how do I choose to live?
Principle: Understanding our identity in Christ enables us to serve others.
Promise: God already approves of us—and His opinion is the only one which matters.
Ponder:
In what situations do I find my identity in Christ most threatened (Feeling inadequate, insulted, making mistakes, etc.)?
What aspects of my God-given identity can I recall to help me face these attacks?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study John 13:1-16.
Prayer: “Lord, thank you, for not only saving me, but re-defining me. Help me find my identity in who you say I am, rather than allowing others to determine my value.”