Embracing Your True Identity: Living a Purposeful Life in Faith

Question: If I was to ask you Who are you what answer would you give me?

As young people navigating the challenges of life, it's important to understand who we are, discover our unique gifts and talents, and live a purposeful life aligned with Jesus.

I want to talk about ways to embrace your true Identity.

Turn to your bible Psalm 139:13-14

Scripture: Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV) "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

I. God's Intentional Design: When you start to explore your identity and purpose, you must begin by acknowledging that you guys are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. God intentionally designed each one of us, intricately weaving together every aspect of our being. Our physical features, personalities, strengths, and weaknesses are all part of God's unique plan for us. Therefore, we should never compare ourselves to others or let society define our worth. We are loved and valued just as we are.

II. Discovering Our Gifts and Talents: Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."

God has blessed each one of us with unique gifts and talents. These gifts are not meant to be hidden or wasted but are intended to be used for a greater purpose. Take time to explore your passions, interests, and abilities. Reflect on what brings you joy and where you excel. These are indicators of the gifts God has placed within you. When we discover and develop these gifts, we can use them to serve others and bring glory to God.

Discovering your gifts and talents with Jesus involves recognizing and cultivating the abilities and qualities that God has placed within you. I will share some steps you can take to discover your gifts and talents with Jesus:

1. Acknowledge God as the Giver: Recognize that every good and perfect gift comes from God (James 1:17). Understand that your gifts and talents are not accidental but are intentional blessings from God.

2.Seek God's Guidance: Pray and ask God to reveal the gifts and talents He has placed within you. Ask Him for wisdom and discernment to understand how you can use them for His glory.

3.Reflect on Your Passions and Abilities: Consider the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Think about the skills and abilities that come naturally to you. Reflect on the areas where you have received positive feedback from others. These could be indications of the gifts and talents God has given you.

4.Study the Scriptures: The Bible provides guidance and examples of various gifts and talents. Read passages like Romans 12:6-8According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts: If prophecy, use it according to the proportion of one’s faith;

7 if service, use it in service; if teaching, in teaching;

8 if exhorting, in exhortation; giving, with generosity; leading, with diligence; showing mercy, with cheerfulness.

, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, and Ephesians 4:11-13 to gain a deeper understanding of the different gifts and how they can be used to serve others.

5.Experiment and Explore: Engage in different activities and opportunities to discover what resonates with you. Try new things, volunteer in different areas of service, and explore various interests. As you step out in faith and try new experiences, God may reveal hidden talents and passions.

6.Listen to the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit guides and empowers us. Pay attention to the promptings and nudges you feel within your heart. The Holy Spirit can guide you toward the areas where your gifts and talents can have the greatest impact.

7.Seek Feedback and Counsel: Seek feedback from trusted mentors, friends, and fellow believers. They can provide valuable insight and help you identify your strengths and areas of giftedness. Their perspective can confirm and affirm the gifts you are discovering.

8.Use Your Gifts in Service: Once you have identified your gifts and talents, seek opportunities to use them in service to others. Find ways to bless and benefit those around you. Serving others with your gifts not only brings joy and fulfillment but also glorifies God.

Remember that discovering your gifts and talents is an ongoing process. It may take time to fully understand and develop them. Be open to growth, be willing to step out of your comfort zone, and trust that God will guide you as you seek to use your gifts for His purposes.

III. Living a Purposeful Life: Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

God has a purpose for each one of us. We are not accidents or mere spectators in this world. We were created in Christ Jesus to do good works. Our purpose is not about achieving personal success or chasing after worldly desires, but rather about fulfilling God's plan for our lives. By seeking His guidance and aligning our lives with His will, we can live a purposeful life that brings honor to God and brings blessings to those around us.

IV. Trusting in God's Guidance: Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Discovering our identity and purpose can be an ongoing journey. We may face uncertainties, doubts, and fears along the way. However, we are called to trust in the Lord with all our hearts, leaning not on our own understanding. As we submit to His guidance, He will make our paths straight. God knows us intimately and has a perfect plan for our lives. Let us surrender our desires, dreams, and plans to Him, seeking His wisdom and trusting in His faithfulness.

Conclusion: Beloved youth, as we conclude, remember that your identity is rooted in the love and purpose of God. Embrace your uniqueness, celebrate your gifts, and seek God's guidance as you journey through life. You have a significant role to play in God's kingdom, and your purpose is waiting to be fulfilled. May you walk