Valley Real Life - The ABCD Journey
How Jesus Changes Our Identity
From knowing what is true to learning to live from it.
Following Jesus is more than learning new information or trying harder to be a better person. Jesus invites us into a real relationship with Him — one where we learn to trust what God says is true, let go of the beliefs that get in the way, and let the Holy Spirit do His work in us.
In Christ, God gives us a new identity. Over time, He teaches us to understand that identity, embrace it personally, and live from it in our everyday choices and relationships.
Identity in Christ — Put On the Truth
Recognize and affirm what God says is true about who you are in Christ — and learn how to understand it, personally embrace it, and live from it.
Competing Beliefs — Put Off What Is False
Recognize the thoughts and beliefs that contradict God's truth, damage your well-being and relationships, and hinder your spiritual growth. These are patterns you can bring to God, challenge with Scripture, and increasingly put off as your mind is renewed.
GOD'S WORD
And you must throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
Ephesians 4:22–24NLT
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission.
Our identity in Christ
You do not have to be capable of everything to be useful to God. He invites you to depend on His grace, receive His wisdom, and grow in the abilities He provides. Your limitations do not disqualify you from His work; they can become places where His strength is displayed.
GOD'S WORD
Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9–10NLT
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission.
GOD'S WORD
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:5NLT
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission.
GOD'S WORD
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.
Philippians 2:13NLT
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission.
Transformation Is a Journey
Knowing these truths is a beginning. Learning to trust them personally and live from them is a journey.
You may understand that your worth comes from God while still measuring yourself by achievement. You may believe God accepts you while still fearing rejection. You may know that God is trustworthy while struggling to surrender control.
These tensions do not mean your faith is false or that you have failed. They are places to become honest with God and invite Him into the process.
As you begin, consider where Jesus may be inviting you to take your next step—not toward becoming someone you have to manufacture, but toward learning to live more fully from who you are in Him.