In 2 Corinthians 5:17 the Bible reads that we are “new creations” if we are followers of Christ. Have you ever wondered about the way God feels about you? We can be very hard on ourselves at times. We often struggle with our identity. This week, we’ll turn to God’s Word to find out how He views us and how we can find our identity in Him.

Known

“You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.”

Psalm 139:3-5, NIV

Do you desire to be truly known? Timothy Keller, the author of The Meaning of Marriage, wrote, “To be known and not loved is our greatest fear.” We want to be known, but we fear the rejection that we believe may come with the exposure of being known.

Many of us work hard to project the version of ourselves that we want others to see. We want people around us to think we have it all together. It’s difficult to admit our struggles, even to those who know us best.

So it’s a relief to understand that God knows everything about us, even the darkest parts of our hearts, and He still loves and accepts us. We are known completely and loved unconditionally.

We don’t have to hide from God or fear condemnation. Romans 8:1 reads, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Throughout Scripture, we come to know a man named Jesus who encountered sinners with love and acceptance. He demonstrated compassion, not condemnation.

We can be very hard on ourselves. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking negative thoughts and constantly berating ourselves. This habit can even be the result of prior verbal abuse from someone close to you. Let’s work on stopping the condemning self-talk and learning to be gentle with ourselves. If God knows us fully and still considers us precious and worthy of love, we can give ourselves a break.

If you struggle with being kind to yourself, use this prayer in Psalm 139:

Search me, God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24, NIV

Today, remember that you are fully known and completely loved. When we rest in that knowledge, our identity as a child of God becomes clear.

Seeking Him,

Allison