Who am I?

Luke 7:24-28   

24  After John’s messenger’s left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see?  A reed swayed by the wind?

25  If not, what did you go out to see?  A man dressed in fine clothes?  No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces.

26  But what did you go out to see?  A prophet?  Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.

27  This is the one about whom it is written: ‘I will send my messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way before You.’

28  I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

When John the Baptist was imprisoned by King Herod for his bold messages about repentance, he began to doubt about who Jesus was.  But Jesus was never in doubt about who John the Baptist was at all!  John was not a weak man shaken by every wind of doctrine (Eph. 4:14), and he was definitely not a rich man living in finery.  According to Jesus, he was the greatest prophet ever born! 

When we’re faced with an identity crisis, we should ask the Lord for His view of who we are: 

·         We are beloved children of God (1 John 3:1)

·         We are sinners saved by His grace (Romans 8:23-24, 11:18-20; Eph. 2:8-9)

·         We are disciples in the path to spiritual maturity (Matt. 28:19-20; Eph. 4:14-15, 22-24)

·         We are His branches in need of pruning (John 15:1-4)

·         We are God’s workmanship created for good works (Eph. 2:10)

·         We are an important part of the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:14-20)

·         We are the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matt. 5:13-14)

·         We are ambassadors for God (2 Cor. 5:18-21)

I could go on and on, but do you see the point?  God has the highest and most accurate view of ourselves, not what we or what others think of ourselves.  We may think of ourselves too lowly or too highly, but God’s view of us is 100% correct!

Father God, thank You for knowing us intimately.  You see potential for Your kingdom in us, and You see the areas where we need pruning.  Make us useful instruments in Your sight, and help us be fruitful in the kingdom of God.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.