RELEASED: Living From Our True Identity, Part 4
SCRIPTURE
So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! - 2 Corinthians 5:16–17
MEDITATION
You know that feeling when a brief conversation leaves you feeling a little… diminished? It's not that anything dramatic occurred, or that anyone intended to hurt you. Yet, an internal measuring stick suddenly appears. We start questioning ourselves: Am I good enough? Impressive enough? Spiritual enough? Do I truly belong here?
That is what comparison does. It teaches us to measure our worth by earthly standards rather than embracing the identity we already possess in Christ. This doesn't just affect how we view ourselves; it also shapes our perceptions of others. Ultimately, comparison reveals a deep insecurity, a belief that what God has provided isn't quite enough.
Paul dealt with this in Corinth. Some questioned his apostleship because he seemed inferior to the “super-apostles” (2 Cor. 11:5). But Paul was not defending his ego. He was exposing something deeper: they were judging according to the flesh because they had not fully understood their new identity in Christ.
And so, he says, “From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh.”
The gospel exposes our broken way of measuring people. The world evaluates people by talent, accomplishment, and ethnicity. And if we are not careful, we can begin to use the same measuring system while calling it discernment. We may even become self-righteous, using imperfect standards to feel better about ourselves.
Paul continues, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
As long as you are in Christ, the verdict has already been decided. You have a new identity. You have already been loved, accepted, and reconciled.
So what are you still proving, and to whom?
Since you are alive in Christ, there is no need for you to construct your identity through achievements or through the opinions of others. There is no need for you to compete for a place Christ has already given you. Even though the old man may still clamor for attention, you should know that the old no longer owns you. The world may still present evidence against you, and your fears may still speak loudly, but they no longer have the final word.
And when that truth settles deeply in your heart, it frees you. Free to love without needing applause. Free to serve without drawing attention to yourself. Free to step into hard places without first proving your worth. Free to stop earning what Christ has already given. It also frees you to see others differently, through the grace of Christ, who makes all things new.
For in Christ, your identity cannot be questioned.
REFLECTION
What part of my identity am I still allowing to be questioned?
Lord Jesus, help me understand that it is you who defines who I am and who gives me my identity and not any external sources. Help me see myself and others through the new creation you have made. Amen.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Elias Abi Rached currently resides in Beirut, Lebanon, together with his wife, Lydia, and three daughters. Elias works with NEO Leaders, where he partners with leaders who seek to advance the gospel in the fields that God has called them to. Elias is passionate about sports, thought-provoking literature, technology, and games.