Who Are You In Christ?

"So in case some left it out or forgot to mention it when they explained what it meant to be a Christian, let me be clear: There is no forgiveness without repentance. There is no salvation without surrender. There is no life without death. There is no believing without committing." -Kyle Idleman, "Not a Fan" (p. 35)

I'd like to begin by presenting a couple of questions to you: Do you really know who you are in Christ? How do you perceive yourself as a Christian?

Christians are commonly referred to as "saints." The word is derived from the Greek word hagios, which literally means "holy." Thus, in the New Testament sense of the word, to be a saint is to be a "holy one." And that’s who we are in Christ.

Consequently, according to God’s Word, all believers are already saints. From His perspective, we're saints not because of who men say we are, but because of what Christ did for us. We're not holy because of our own good works or righteousness. Simply put, we are Christians because of Christ.

The Bible tells us that "all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment." (Isaiah 64:6). The reality is that you and I are righteous because Jesus died on the Cross. By dying for us, He gave us His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). We are now the righteousness of God in Christ.

It was God’s will to choose us; to adopt us as His sons and daughters. Therefore, God has given us what we are undeserving of. He has freely given us His grace and made us part of His family. No wonder the apostle John could say, "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!" (1 John 3:1).

In closing, I just want to reassure you that God truly loves us. He has accepted us, and given us security in life. God doesn't change you so that He can love you. In fact, He loves you in order to change you. You see, it's His love that changes you!

Dear friends, you can rest securely in your relationship with Christ. Because, in Christ you are secure; and you are accepted.

Scripture: 1 Peter 4:16; Luke 4:4; Acts 2: 37-39; John 6:44; Matthew 5:13-16

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me throughout my walk as a Christian; and may I always be a shining example by my words, actions, and relationships with others. Amen

May your lives be blessed!

Mindy