DIGGING DEEP NO. 1079 April 15, 2025 A Case of Identity? Faith and Identity: A Paradigm Shift Gen 3:5b

Faith is more than just belief, it is a complete mindset shift, a transformation that redefines how we see ourselves, our purpose, and our interactions with the world. Many motivational speakers say, “You have to see it before you achieve it” which echoes the biblical definition of faith in Hebrews 11:1 the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Faith challenges our perception of reality and requires us to align our identity with God’s vision rather than human expectations.

The Biggest Attack on Faith: Identity Crisis

One of the greatest threats to faith is the attack on identity. Who we believe we are determines how we live, the choices we make, and how we respond to challenges. Throughout the Bible, we see instances where individuals struggled with their identity or have their identities challenged by people around them but overcame through faith.

DISCUSSION

1. Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:5) – The first identity attack

• Satan tempted Eve with the idea that she could be like God, implying she was lacking something. But in reality, she and Adam were already made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). This deception led to the fall, showing how a distorted identity can lead to disobedience.

2. Saul’s Identity Struggle (1 Samuel 9:21, 10:9) – A reluctant king

• Saul saw himself as insignificant, but God had chosen him to be king. Because of his limited self-perception, God had to supernaturally transform his heart (1 Samuel 10:9) to align with his calling. However, Saul’s inability to fully embrace his God-given identity led to his downfall.

3. David’s Confidence in Identity (1 Samuel 17:20-40) – Faith vs. Fear

• Unlike Saul and the Israelites, David did not let others define him. While others saw a shepherd boy, he saw himself as a warrior anointed by God. He refused to wear Saul’s armor because he knew his strength came from God, not human validation. This mindset echoes Romans 12:2, which speaks of renewing the mind.

4. Jesus’ Unshakable Identity

• Jesus constantly faced challenges to His identity:
  • Satan tempted Him in the wilderness, trying to make Him prove His divinity (Matthew 4:1-11).
  • Peter rebuked Him when He spoke about His mission, but Jesus firmly corrected him (Matthew 16:21-23).
  • At Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus confidently declared His power over death (John 11:25-26).
• Jesus’ unwavering knowledge of His identity enabled Him to fulfill His purpose.

CONCLUSION

We all have an identity in God that transcends what people see or label us. Just because others cannot understand or fathom our purpose does not mean it is wrong, it means we are operating on a different frequency. Faith is not just believing in God; it is believing in who God says you are.