THE REAL YOU

Has a busy life kept you from a freshness that is yours in Christ?  Dear Christian, are you overwhelmed with pressures of living? Find yourself in the parable of the Good News sown into your heart…

"The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life . . ." Matthew 13:22

Jesus understands and longs to give us victory in THIS LIFE, not only in Heaven. Believing God's Word is true, we must not be content to experience His Truth half-heartedly.  Romans 6:4 explains that if we have joined Jesus through His death and resurrection, then "we too may live a new life." (NIV)

God has joy for His children! New Life here, and New Life there. Many Christians accept by faith the latter, but totally dismiss New Life on earth.

The Holy Spirit is opening my understanding about experiencing victory here and now by helping me grasp the reality of TWO stages of Salvation. Let's explore…

Salvation-There and Salvation-Here

We get the THERE reality. We see ourselves in our newly resurrected bodies experiencing joy and freedom from stress. We accept this by faith. The HERE reality remains the challenge; but we can accept it too by faith. How?

I believe the answer is quite simple. We must remember and keep remembering . . .WHO WE ARE IN JESUS! The roles I live in this life do not give me my identity. I am His Daughter clothed in Christ and filled with His glory!

I was once consumed with the "substitute identities" of wife, mother, speaker, writer - placing my worth as a woman on how well I measured up in these areas. Here's what I've discovered; when you place your identity in the world's system, you'll never measure up. You'll always strive to perform better and feel better about yourself. And the world will cheer you on.

Don't misunderstand. These roles are gifts from God, but they are not where we find our true identity!  His Daughter, clothed in His Righteousness, seeking only His Favor - is the Real Me, the True Me!

That's the work of The Cross, my friend. . . done, complete, finished.

May you allow this Good News to flourish today without being choked out!

Dear Father, I long to find my fulfillment in YOU. Thank You for saving my soul and allowing me the privilege of living life with You forever. I look forward to that day of no stress, no pains, no concerns at all. Now; help me to live my earthly life with new awareness of my true identity. I love the roles You have given me in this life, Thank You. But teach me to focus – really focus – on the Real Me as Your Daughter and Bride. Keeping that glorious spotlight shining in my heart will help me keep energized and productive for You. I Love You Jesus. Amen.