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
Your failures are real, but they do not have the final word over your life. Because Jesus has borne your sin, you can confess honestly, receive God's forgiveness, and turn toward Him again. You no longer have to hide in shame or define yourself by your worst moments; God's grace invites you into repentance, restoration, and growth.
GOD'S WORD
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
1 John 1:9NLT
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission.
GOD'S WORD
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1NLT
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission.
GOD'S WORD
The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
Psalm 103:8–12NLT
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.