What Defines Me?

Do we let the standards of the world define who we are? Often, I will look around the world around me and start to compare myself to others - measuring myself against other people who seem successful by the world's standards. My thinking starts to go in a downwards spiral, and I begin to wish I had more: more money, more friends, a better job, better health, better fitness, the latest trends etc. It can become easy to make this an unhealthy habit every time you meet someone, or pass people on the street. 

As my thoughts continue in this pattern, I have to force myself to stop and think. Why am I being so ungrateful and discontent? Yes, my job may not pay much - but God has still met all of my needs. Yes, I may not have as many friends as some people - but I have more than some...and the friends I do have are an encouragement to me and I appreciate every one of them. Yes, my job does have its good days and bad days - but I am thankful I have a job and an opportunity to input into some children's lives. Yes, my health and fitness may not be exactly the way I want it to be - but I am alive and able to make changes with God's help. Yes, I may not be up with the latest trends in regard to fashion, cars, technology etc. - but I have clothes on my back and a good car that runs smoothly.

But, am I defined by how much money I make, or the clothes I wear? Am I going to let the opinions of the world define who I am? Or am I going to define who I am by God's standards, and who He says I am? My identity is in Christ - the One who made me in His image - the One who loves me, and calls me His child. 

Our days on this earth are numbered but how much of this time is spent being ungrateful for what we don't have, instead of being content with what we do have. Are we thinking or looking at things through a God-centred lens? Or are we worried that we aren't living up to the world's standards? Yes, life gets tough, and there will be storms will come and go in our lives. But we should never let the presence of a storm doubt the presence of God. God promises to never leave or forsake us. He provides for all our needs. The world may try and tell you otherwise, but remember that you are His child. 

Hope y'all have a good week!
Esther x