Understanding Our Spiritual Identity: A Journey Back to Genesis

In a world fraught with division and identity crises, the need to understand one's true essence has never been more urgent. As I embark on this journey from Church Out of the Box in Blanchard, Oklahoma, I invite you to explore the concept of spiritual identity, as deeply rooted in biblical teachings.

The Identity Crisis: A Modern Dilemma
There’s an undeniable identity struggle happening on personal and national levels. Many are grappling with questions of self-identity, while nations deal with complexities brought on by immigration and cultural assimilation. This pursuit often breeds division and chaos, pushing against the unity necessary for peace and productivity.

God’s Early Address on Identity
Interestingly, God foresaw mankind's struggle with identity. In the book of Genesis, the formation of man marks a significant focus on identity. Genesis 1:26 sets the tone with God’s words: “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” This foundational statement established humanity's spiritual identity, as God created us in His divine image, encompassing God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Nature and Dominion
Initially, man was crafted as a spiritual being. Jesus emphasized this when he told the Samaritan woman at the well that God is a spirit (John 4:24). This spiritual creation armed mankind to face spiritual adversaries, including those against the divine plans of God.
In Genesis 1:26, God also tasked man with dominion over the earth. This command extended beyond the physical realm, challenging humanity to rule both visible and invisible aspects of creation. Yet, the Bible recounts how mankind’s disobedience cost us this righteous nature, leading us to vulnerability against adversarial forces.

The Gift of Righteousness Restored
Romans 5:17 speaks of God's abundant grace, offering the gift of righteousness through Jesus Christ. This righteousness enables us to rule as kings in life, restoring our spiritual identity. Second Corinthians 5:21 outlines the sacrificial act whereby God made Jesus sin on our behalf, to reestablish righteousness within us.

In Christ, not only is personal salvation offered, but the very essence of the Godhead is restored within us (Colossians 2:9-10). This profound truth reiterates that our identity, initially rooted in a divine design, becomes complete through the acceptance of Jesus.

Misplaced Searches for Identity
The contemporary pursuit of identity often diverts to physical and societal markers—skin color, gender, education, abilities, ancestry, or even political affiliations. Each of these attempts doesn’t truly encompass who we are, for our identity is spiritual.
Many recourse to ancestry tests or social conformity, yet the spiritual origin of our identity remains overlooked. We must realize that our core is defined not by natural elements, but by our spiritual likeness to God.

Embracing Unity through Spiritual Identity
Jesus proclaimed himself as the truth (John 14:6), illustrating that truth guides understanding of self. With Jesus as a cornerstone in our lives, we gain clarity on our life's truths—our gender, nature, and purpose.

Unity, a byproduct of shared spiritual identity, fosters peace and productivity. This cohesive existence encourages us to collaborate towards fulfilling God's purpose for our lives.

A Prayer for True Identity
If you’re seeking clarity or spiritual awareness, I extend a prayer to you. Declare with me: "Jesus, I believe you are the Son of the living God, raised from the dead. I confess you as my Lord and Savior. Come into my life, restore my righteous nature, and reign within me. Thank you for making me victorious. I choose from today to live for your glory. Amen."
In aligning with these spiritual truths, we discover a unified identity in Christ, paving the way for peace, understanding, and spiritual fulfillment in our lives.