We generally identify with our name and occupation when we meet new people. Our jobs or what we do for a living becomes our identity. In many ways, professions give defining details about a person. It has much to say about their background, interests, and values. For example, if someone says that they are a surgeon, you would assume that they have a high level of education and a good income, two metrics by which we measure people in our society. In valuing people by their chosen professions, we not only cheat ourselves, but we also cheat them. God created us to be so much more, and we are created in His image.
When we are weak, God is strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-11). Remember that you are vital in the Lord’s strength when we feel down and out. We have a certain amount of human power, but God’s strength is unlimited and powerful. Isaiah reminds us that God says, “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV). We don’t have the strength or wherewithal to fight through life’s battles but remember that God is with us, and His power is unlimited. The psalmist tells us, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts….” (Psalm 28:7 NIV). The more we trust the Lord, the stronger God becomes.
What kind of Strength does the Lord give? Paul tells us in I Timothy, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (NIV). When we trust and rely on God, we submit our weakness and inability to His power, strength, and ability. When we know and understand that we are not able and God is, God, floods our beings with His power and strength to withstand whatever trial we go through.
What happens when we rely on our identity and ability? We get overwhelmed and stressed out because we don’t have the strength to see ourselves through. We have to remember that seasons of life come and go. For a season, you may have an impressive job; little do you know that you can lose that job at the drop of a hat. You may enjoy being a mom, but the kids will grow up and move away. You may be in a season when your parents need help and care. If and when these seasons change, it can be identity-shattering, resulting in depression. None of these things define us or give us value – they are tasks we do. When we become Christians, it is our identity. We are created in God’s image, which provides us with value. God places so much importance on us that He gave His Son so we could have eternal life.
You don’t have to rely on your strength and ability when you are in Christ. God is with you; His power is everlasting and unlimited. He is your source of strength and confidence, which he renews when we put our hope and trust in Him. Remember, when you feel down and out, God is able; through Him, we are vital in the Lord.
