Anne D Thompson

Identity Crisis Reclaim the True You Anne D Thompson

We are in an identity crisis because we've been victims of identity theft. No, it's not earthly identity theft where our social security numbers are stolen and our credit cards hacked. Spiritual identity theft is far more serious-leading to a crisis that goes beyond our finances in scope. It affects every area of our lives: relationships, self-esteem, health, vocational success, and fulfillment of our deepest dreams. One of Jesus' most powerful statements encapsulates this truth: "The thief came to rob, kill and destroy. I came that you might live the fulfilling, abundant life you were created to live." -John 10:10 The reality is that the only way to experience the abundant, fulfilling life we were designed to experience, is to confront the one who has stolen from us, to partner with Jesus, and to reclaim the identity that is rightfully ours. What does it mean to reclaim? It is to take that which is stolen, lost, broken, or wounded, and restore it to its true glory. It is to make the vast wasteland become beautiful and productive again. Jesus came to stop the identity theft, change our passwords, and to reclaim our true identity-beloved children in his father's family and royal heirs in his kingdom as Romans 8 describes: "For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ." Jesus' process is quite simple. He reminds the identity thief of his defeat when Jesus gave his life for you in exchange for your freedom. He then invites you to partner with him to discover, uncover, and reclaim your true status as a valued, beloved child and heir in God's great big family. It's simple, but not easy. It takes faith and perseverance on your part, but Jesus has done the rest. He holds out his hand in invitation. Will you accept?