Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
Introduction
Everyone is building their identity on something.
For some, it’s what they’ve accomplished. For others, it’s what people think of them. For many, it’s the constant voice inside their head — the words they tell themselves every day. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to anchor our identity not in these shifting sands but in the solid rock of who Jesus says we are.
The world offers many “competitors” to our true identity — false sources that shape how we see ourselves and how we live.
Let’s look at four of them.
1. What Others Say About You
From childhood, we crave affirmation — from parents, teachers, peers, and even strangers online. Compliments lift us up; criticism crushes us. Slowly, our self-worth becomes chained to people’s opinions.
But people’s opinions change like the wind.
Even Jesus — perfect and sinless — was celebrated one day (“Hosanna!”) and crucified the next (“Crucify Him!”). If the Son of God was not defined by public approval, how much less should we be?
Truth: What others say about you cannot define you. What God says about you does.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are.” — 1 John 3:1
2. What You Do (Your Job or Role)
Work is a gift from God. Roles — as parents, pastors, students, or professionals — are meaningful. Yet, when what we do becomes who we are, we lose sight of grace.
Careers change. Roles end. Titles fade. But your worth in Christ remains constant.
Illustration: Imagine a man who loses his job after twenty years. His sense of identity collapses, not because he lost his income, but because he lost his “title.” When our identity is built on what we do, it’s only a matter of time before something shakes it.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” — Ephesians 2:10
You’re not valuable because of your work; your work has value because you belong to God.
3. What You Say to Yourself (Self-Talk)
The loudest voice in your life isn’t someone else’s — it’s your own.
Your internal dialogue shapes how you think, feel, and respond. “I’m not good enough.” “I’ll never change.” “I’m a failure.” These are the whispers of an unrenewed mind.
But God calls us to renew our minds with His truth (Romans 12:2).
When self-talk becomes negative, Scripture gives us a new vocabulary:
“I am loved.” (Romans 8:38–39)
“I am chosen.” (1 Peter 2:9)
“I am forgiven.” (Colossians 1:13–14)
“I am a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Truth: Self-talk may shape your mood, but only God’s Word defines your identity.
4. What the World Labels You (Psychological or Cultural Labels)
Our culture loves labels — introvert, extrovert, achiever, failure, victim, survivor, influencer, or even the categories of success and status. These labels can describe certain realities, but they cannot define the whole person God created.
When you belong to Christ, every worldly label is secondary. You’re not defined by your personality type, your past mistakes, or your cultural status. You are defined by the cross.
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28
Illustration: The Four Roads
Imagine standing at a crossroads. Before you stretch four roads, each with a bright sign:
- People’s Opinions
- Career or Role
- Self-Talk
- Cultural Labels
Each road promises meaning and security — but they all lead away from Christ. Meanwhile, the narrow road behind you bears a simple sign: “Jesus Christ – The Way, The Truth, The Life.”
Where are you walking today?
Conclusion: The Only Foundation That Lasts
All other identity sources crumble under pressure. Only Christ gives an identity that endures. When we rest in Him, we stop performing for approval and start living from acceptance.
“You are not what you do. You are not what others say. You are not what you feel. You are who God says you are.”
What are you letting define you today?
Return to the One who made you, knows you, and calls you His own.
Let Christ — and Christ alone — shape the way you see yourself.
Stand Firm! 
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