When you observe the fruit of a thing you must always consider the root of that same thing. What is identity and how is it formed? What soil did it grow in and do these considerations crystallize why I view myself the way I do? I hope this article will begin to address some of these thoughts.
The fruit most often seen and on display is our behavior, treatment of others, what we give ourselves to, whether it be our career, charities, relationships and activities. There is hidden fruit that many are not always privy to. What people don’t often see which are our thoughts, those inner contemplations that we wrestle with sometimes daily, to remind ourselves why we are important and what impact we are making or not making in our world.
Identity actually encompasses memories, thoughts, experiences, relationships, and values that create one sense of self. It is in essence “who you are.”
Is who you are based on what people say, what you have or what you do? The most powerful tool one can have outside of an active and deep relationship with the Lord, is having deep self awareness and an openness to accepting, from those who love us, feedback about the blind spots they can see but that you can’t. Why is identity important? It can help you understand your likes, dislikes, actions, motivations, and relationships. it helps you to understand the why.
What matters most is that we have a Creator who is very intentional about what He says about who we are and why He made us. Often so many journey through life not even seeing who they really are because at a young age they began to hear and experience the thoughts and opinions of those around them that formulated a deep understanding of who they are. This is the power of parenting because it is the most influential position you can occupy to contribute to the formation of a solid foundation for a young life. The way a person moves in this position is based on their own self perceptions and experiences.
Who are you? I can tell you that you aren’t what you have, what they say or what you do. In essence, it is ever so simple. John 15:16 says it well, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you, so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—so whatever you ask in my name, the father will give you.” There is a fundamental truth and that is, the Creator chose you, assigned you to your purpose and called you a beloved child before you even began making moves in this world. This revolutionary understanding creates a notion that I belong, am loved, accepted, and worth it, just because I breathe!! How amazing! Wow, what a thought to behold.
