Scripture Verse: Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
It takes courage to adopt and embody the beliefs, attitudes, and actions of Jesus of Nazareth. It requires bravery because many men around us ignore the call of Jesus Christ in their lives, and it’s challenging to swim against the cultural tide. We must live and work among these men, so sometimes our walk with Christ can feel lonely. “… for wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.”[1]
But choosing to live the Christ-centered life is also a journey of brotherhood because no Christian man is asked to walk alone. Among the many ways a man can choose to live, the Christ-centered way is the very best because its ideals are true and rooted in the highest authority. “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”[2]
You may be wondering what we mean by courageous identity. One way to grasp the idea of identity is by describing the life of a sports fan. Since I live in Dallas, Texas, let’s focus on a dedicated Dallas Cowboys supporter. What does it mean for someone to take on or embrace the identity of a Dallas Cowboys fan? At the very least, he would learn about the team, get to know the players, watch the games, and cheer for the team. As the season goes on, he might even buy a team jersey, attend a game in person, or discuss the team’s strategy with a coworker.
Over time, a true fan (short for fanatic) completely embraces the heart and soul of his favorite team. He understands the challenges faced by players and coaches; studies opposing teams, listens to sports talk radio, and seeks out Dallas Cowboys insider podcasts. As his fanaticism intensifies, he becomes consumed by every victory or loss. He may even purchase season tickets.
Soon enough, his entire week centers around the Dallas Cowboys games. He mourns the end of a tough season or celebrates the long-awaited Championship game. If the Cowboys succeed, he feels accomplished; if they suffer defeat, he feels like a loser. Over time, his identity and self-worth become closely linked to the team.
Reflect on your own identity in Christ, remembering that only Jesus can guide your life without ruining it. The first step to following Jesus Christ is to trust Him completely and place your complete faith in Him for the forgiveness of all your sins: past, present, and future. Jesus isn’t looking for casual fans; He wants fully committed followers. He desires you to believe, like the apostle Paul, that “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain!”[3]
You and I need to realize, just as Jesus’ first disciples did, that life’s ultimate purpose and meaning are found only in Him. Our actions and desires must align with the teachings of Jesus Christ. We must shape our identity, values, and very existence around serving and honoring Him. Do you trust the Lord Jesus with your very life? These days, are you placing your identity in anything or any person other than Jesus?
© Dr. Paul Pettit
This post first appeared in NewCommandment.org.
Dr. Paul Pettit
Dr. Paul Pettit serves as Director of Career Services at Dallas Theological Seminary and teaches in the departments of Spiritual Formation, Leadership, and Pastoral Ministries. Dr. Pettit is also the founder of Dynamic Dads. Dynamic Dads is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging fathers everywhere in their demanding yet highly rewarding role of leading their family.
[1] Matthew 7:13
[2] Matthew 7:14
[3] Philippians 1:21
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