Who or what defines you? Is it your job? Your past? What people say about you?
In a world that constantly tells us who we should be, understanding our true identity is more important than ever. Identity is not just about what we do, where we come from, or what others say about us—it’s about who we were created to be in Christ.
WHAT IS IDENTITY?
Identity is who you are at your core—it shapes how you see yourself, how others see you, and how you live your life.
3 DIMENSIONS OF IDENTITY:
- External Identity – The Labels Society Gives You
External identity is based on how others see us and how we measure up to societal standards. It’s shaped by external factors like achievements (Job title, grades, awards.), appearance (Physical looks, fashion, body image.), relationships (role, connections, network) , and Possessions(Wealth, material goods, social status)
Strengths:
- Provides a sense of belonging and recognition in society.
Weaknesses:
- Temporary and unstable (can change with circumstances).
- Leads to comparison, insecurity, and pride.
- Doesn’t reflect our true worth or purpose.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)
- Internal Identity – How You See Yourself
Internal identity is based on how we see ourselves. It’s shaped by our thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and self-perception.
Strengths:
- Reflects personal growth and self-awareness.
Weaknesses:
- Subjective and influenced by emotions (can be unreliable).
- Often negative or self-critical.
- Limited by our finite understanding.
- Spiritual Identity – How God Sees us
Spiritual identity is rooted in our relationship with God and His truth. It’s unchanging, eternal, and based on who God says we are.
Strengths:
- Unshakable and eternal (not based on circumstances).
- Provides true worth, purpose, and security.
- Frees us from comparison, fear, and insecurity.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Which one do people struggle with the most? Drop a number in the comments!
RE-DEFINING IDENTITY
Identity Is More Than…
Identity is not just about what we do, where we come from, how we see ourselves, how we feel, our past, weaknesses, failures, accomplishments, reputation, or what others say about us
The problem? Many people define themselves based on external factors, living out of a false identity, shaped by culture, past experiences, or insecurities instead of who God says we are.
It’s NOT just about:
- Your Skin Color or Appearance – Beauty fades, but identity is eternal (1 Samuel 16:7).
- Your Achievements – Awards and success don’t determine your worth (Luke 10:20).
- Your Social Status – Whether rich or poor, your value is the same in God’s eyes (Galatians 3:28).
- How Others See You – People’s opinions change, but God’s truth about you remains (Isaiah 40:8).
- Your Social Media Following – True influence isn’t about likes or followers but about impact (Matthew 5:16).
- Your Relationships – Friendships, marriage, or family roles don’t define your core identity (Luke 14:26).
- Your Past Mistakes or Successes – You are not your failures or accomplishments (2 Corinthians 5:17).
True identity runs much deeper than what can be seen or measured.
Tag someone who needs this reminder! Who does God say you are? Drop a comment below!
Watch the video below