Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

The moment we embrace the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, our lives undergo a radical transformation. Our entire identity shifts; the old is gone, and we are made brand new. The sin nature we were born with, along with the patterns and pitfalls of this world, no longer have power over us. Through faith in Christ, we are granted eternal life that changes everything.

The Imbalance We Face

In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to get lost in a cycle of trying to please God through our deeds. We often find ourselves striving for balance, believing that our good works can tip the scales in our favor. However, the truth we need to embrace is that we can never balance out the scales with God in this natural life. This feeling of imbalance persists regardless of how many good deeds we undertake.
The weight of sin constantly pulls us off-kilter. Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” We were born with a sinful nature, and our efforts are merely attempts to compensate for what we feel we lack. No matter how much we give or how many good works we boast, they will never balance the scale because the balance in the scales does not come from us. It comes from Jesus and His finished work on the cross.
In Philippians 3:10, Paul writes, “I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death.” Paul expresses a desire to know Christ deeply, to understand the achievement of His death and resurrection. This knowledge is crucial because the balance of our relationship with God relies not on our righteousness but on His.

The Price He Paid

The reality of humanity is that sin demands a wage—a price of death. Yet, the Gospel assures us that this hefty debt has been paid in full. When Jesus hung on that cross, He proclaimed, “It is finished.” This statement signifies that He completed the work required for our salvation and that there was no longer a need for additional sacrifices.
Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection freely gift us life—life that is abundant and eternal. This is not a mere promise for the future; it is a tangible reality we live in today. We have been called out from darkness and into His glorious light, a light that charts our course and guides our steps.
When we think of Jesus’ sacrifice, we remember His victory over sin and death. After lying in the tomb, He triumphantly rose from the dead on the third day, demonstrating that He conquered the grave. Forty days later, He ascended into heaven and took His place beside the Father. Why did He sit down? Because His work was finished. The pressure now rests on us—what do we do with this gift of salvation?

Our Transformation of Identity

This change in identity is profound. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we read, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” These words encapsulate the hope we have in Christ. We are no longer defined by our past mistakes, failures, or the burdens of sin. Instead, we are reborn as sons and daughters of God, inheritors of His promises. This truth cannot be overstated; it is foundational to our faith and our daily living.
With this new identity comes the power to navigate the challenges of life, not in our own strength but through the One who empowers us. We are not merely survivors in this world; we are victors because of Christ in us. Our part is to live out of this new identity in Christ—to step into it, embrace it, and live out of it. As Romans 8:17 reminds us, “And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.”

From Death to Life

One of the most liberating truths about our new identity is the freedom from the death sentence that sin placed upon us. Ephesians 2:1-5 clarifies this transformation beautifully: “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked… But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.”
Jesus has granted us eternal life and liberated us from the shadows of our past. This freedom fuels our new identity; we are not who we once were. We are declared new, and we are who we were created to be before the foundation of the world. Ephesians 1:4 declares, “Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.”
When we accept Christ, we are restored to this original design. Our lives, now infused with His essence, are meant to echo heaven’s harmony. This is the calling we have as children of God. Our identity is grounded in Him, and it’s time we embrace it fully.

Living Out of Our New Identity

Living out of this new identity in Christ demands action on our part. The simple yet profound declaration “Christ in me, me in Christ” encapsulates the intimate connection we have with our Savior. As we move through life, the reality remains that where Christ goes, we go, and where we go, He is always with us. This understanding alters our perspectives. No matter the circumstance, we are never alone. The Holy Spirit dwells within us, empowering us and guiding us as we navigate our journey.
Galatians 2:20 reads, “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Our responses to challenges and trials reflect our new identity. Instead of relying on our old ways, we lean on His strength and wisdom, embodying our true selves.

The Beauty of His Presence

Understanding that Christ is always with us brings immense comfort and assurance. We encounter trials that can tempt us to feel isolated, overwhelmed, and alone. However, when we stop and reflect on the truth of our identity, we remember that we are never abandoned.
Jesus promised His disciples in Matthew 28:20, “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This promise extends to us; it is a testament to His unwavering presence. In moments of fear or uncertainty, remind yourself that you carry the Light of the world within you. He guides, leads, and accompanies us on every step of our journey.

Encouragement to Step Forward

Let’s take a moment to consider the implications of our new identity. With this acceptance comes a charge: to live fully in the richness of who we are. It means entering boldly into the realms God has called us, stepping forth with confidence knowing we are His beloved children.

1. Embrace Your Identity: Daily, take the time to remind yourself of who you are in Christ. Writing down affirmations based on scripture can reinforce this truth.
2. Engage with His Word: Surround yourself with the truth of God’s Word. This will strengthen your understanding of your identity and help you to live out that new life.
3. Walk in Authority: Understand that as a child of God, you operate in authority. This doesn’t make you arrogant, but rather empowers you to serve, love, and influence those around you.
4. Cultivate Relationship: Use prayer as a conduit to connect with His presence. Speak with Him throughout your day and cultivate an ongoing dialogue that fosters an intimacy in your relationship.
5. Spread His Love: Let your new identity shine through your actions, loving others as He loves you. Be a beacon of light in a world that desperately needs hope.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the moment we receive the gift of salvation through faith in Christ, our lives are irrevocably changed. The weight of our past is lifted, and the power of a new identity transforms us. We are no longer defined by our sin nature but reborn as sons and daughters of God, filled with authority and purpose.
As we embrace this truth, we step into the fullness of who we are meant to be. With Christ in us and us in Christ, we can face any challenge, knowing that we are never alone. We are designed for greatness and called to reflect the glory of the One who created us.
Let us take this identity and live out the calling that has been placed on our lives, stepping confidently into this new reality, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The journey has begun, and it is one filled with promise, purpose, and the unending presence of our Savior. Embrace your new identity and let it guide your thoughts, words, and actions as you journey through this amazing life in Christ!