Identity development, in my experience, has been an invitation to embrace all the beautiful attributes that God produced when he created mankind. Some of these coincide with society’s view and some of it breaks those norms altogether. In the purest sense, embracing one’s identity means expressing the qualities you are blessed with by the God who created you.
[23] Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Psalms 139:23-24 NLT
There are aspects of my personality that, once apparent, I began to loathe. I learned that I can be pretty direct when I speak sometimes. I am also a bit rough around the edges, though my intentions are good. In other moments, I refrain from speaking because I am overcome with fear of being misunderstood or judged. In light of these traits, I frequently found myself praying these verses as a request for God to change me.
Then, something beautiful happened. God reminded me that He made me in His image and with a unique expression of His likeness. While these traits were not my favorite things about myself, I have begun to recognize how allowing God to refine these parts of my personality allows Him to get the glory. God helped me to understand that His intent wasn’t to change my personality but to change my heart instead. God showed me that my heart was wounded by life experiences and in need of deep repair, which prevented me from reflecting His glory as He intended.
Addressing Fear
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7 NLT
Losing my parents during my formative years severely impacted the person I became. I grew to become anxious about a lot of things and I felt incompetent in many areas of my life. Daily life tasks led to anxiety and overwhelm. Depression also diminished my capacity to show up for myself. In addition to these issues, I found myself making repeated compromising decisions. This led to diminished confidence in my ability to exercise wisdom and use my voice for good.
Despite the overwhelm and lack of confidence I faced, God gave me a heart that yearns for justice. I increasingly felt urged to speak up, even in the face of fear. I am also learning how to choose my battles and become more aware of habits that I need to improve, growing more and more into a confident woman – just as God intended for me.
Becoming A Peacemaker
And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
James 3:18 NLT
Amidst the less-than-ideal circumstances of my youth, I began learning how to use my voice. I mediated between my parents during their disagreements. I stood up for friends and encouraged them when they felt burdened by life’s troubles. I spoke up for peers and authority figures when I observed injustices occuring. Through these experiences, I learned that speaking with boldness doesn’t have to be negative. I learned that my voice can be used for the restoration of others.
The beauty in the process of growth is learning to adjust through awareness you gain while identifying and remaining grounded in your values. As I walk this journey, I am identifying my core values. First and foremost is my faith in God. Following that, I am learning how to truly love and carry myself with dignity, respect, and kindness as well as live out my value of service towards others. As I embrace the unique way that I was made by God, I am embracing my true identity – a peacemaker.
Thank you for taking a moment to reflect with me as I continue my journey. I invite you to embark on your own exploration of your core values in pursuit of personal wholeness and the unique expression of your God-given identity.
Until next time,
Be well.
Reflection Questions:
- How would you define inner peace?
- What three word best describe your identity? Do these align with Scripture?
- What trait(s) has God brought to your attention that need to change? Do you trust God to help you?
Song Selection: Aware by Emandiong; What If by Blanca; Masterpiece by Marizu
Photo courtesy of Diana Simumpande via Unsplash
Leave a Reply