Parenting by Design - November 5

Identity in Christ

Matt. 19:16, 21-22: Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?"... Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth (NIV).

The young man went away sad because Jesus asked him to trade his identity as a rich man for that of a Christ follower. Jesus knew the cost that comes with complete surrender to God. But He also knew it was the only way to find true freedom and eternal purpose on earth.

Like the rich man, sometimes we find ourselves chasing after the validation that comes from worldly identities—the competent businessman, the skilled athlete, the organized housewife, even the committed Christian. After we have kids, being the parent of successful children is often added to the list. But focusing on these goals will cause us to become dependent on the opinions of people and less dependent on God. Success or failure in the world's eyes can turn on a dime. God wants us to surrender all of these for complete dependence on Him.

What is your identity?