Counsel #7 — Embrace Your Identity In Christ

Picture: Counsel #7 — Embrace Your Identity In ChristCMH 73.1

When you realize you are forgiven by Christ, shame and guilt, which frequently lead to a negative self-image, lose their power over you. Acknowledging you’re a beloved forgiven child of God releases the burdens of guilt and shame that have negatively impacted your self-esteem.CMH 73.2

Satan wants you to have low self-esteem; he wants you to believe you are unforgiveable — unlovable. But believe what God says in His Word, my friend! Jesus’ love is powerful enough to overcome Satan’s sinister lies. He liberates us—like a new butterfly emerging from its cocoon. Released from the shackles of low self-worth and into the light of truth, knowing that we are loved, treasured, and made new in our best friend Jesus Christ.^{[76]https://adventistreview.org/feature/identity-in-christ/}CMH 73.3

“Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing.” Isaiah 43:18, 19 NKJVCMH 73.4

“Jesus sees the guilt of the past, and speaks pardon, and we must not dishonor Him by doubting His love. This feeling of guiltiness must be laid at the foot of the cross of Calvary. … Now Jesus says, ‘Lay it all on Me. I will take your sins. I will give you peace. Banish no longer your self respect, for I have bought you with the price of my own blood.” Ellen White in Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce, p. 259CMH 73.5

Reflect: What burdens of low self-worth do you feel tempted to carry? How can claiming your forgiven status in Christ help you release those burdens?CMH 73.6