Written by Joel Muddamalle, a contemporary pastor and director of theology and research for Proverbs 31 Ministries. This is an excerpt from the book 40 Days Through the Bible.
Genesis reminds us that our identity is wrapped up in the will and wisdom of God who created us equal in value and worth, and yet distinct and diverse. God defines us not by what we do, but by whose we are. Sadly, after the Fall, the longing for identity turned us inward, looking to ourselves for our meaning, value and worth. Henri Nouwen, whose work as a priest and professor focused on psychology, social justice, and community, warns us of five lies of identity: 1) I am what I have. 2) I am what I do. 3) I am what other people say or think of me. 4) I am nothing more than my worst moment. 5) I am nothing less than my best moment…Our identity is not simply about us; it is about our relationship with God, who rewrites our story into His story. Our new story is to be lived out in order to invite others into the beautiful story of God who makes all things new and restores beauty from chaos. Who are we? We are image bearers of God. Whose are we? We belong wholly and fully to God the father. What are we suppose to do? We are to spread the glory of God to the ends of the earth by making disciples of Jesus amongst all the nations.
Prayer:
Written by Ron Moore, a contemporary pastor and author.
Who am I really? What do you see in me that you would move heaven and earth to capture my heart? My life feels like a collection of other people’s expectations and disappointments. I do not even know anymore who I truly am. Reveal to me my true identity, my true place in your story. Give me grace to hear your voice; shut out all other voices, and let me hear from you alone.
Pathways Press.com 
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