Catechism: Divine DesignSample

We’ve been told that we’re the creators of our gender identity and that we have total freedom to decide who we are. In reality, God is our Creator. We worship God by being who he created us to be.

When we give ourselves to God and surrender our life to him, God promises to transform us. Over time, God works in us to restore us to his image and live a life that reflects him to the world.

Even though we still live in a sinful world and face temptations, living this new life means we aren’t ruled by our desires or defined by our brokenness. We have true freedom to be who God made us to be!

Whether you struggle with gender identity or sexuality, or something else, know that sin no longer has the final authority over your life. You can live in the freedom of God’s grace, trusting God to transform you through your struggles. As you walk with Jesus, the Holy Spirit works daily to heal, restore, and transform you. It’s a lifelong process, fueled by the hope that one day we’ll see Jesus face to face and complete our transformation.

Read: 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 and 1 John 3:1-3

Reflection Questions:

• Look back at the word “freedom” in 2 Corinthians 3:16. How do you think this freedom is different from the “freedom” our culture claims to offer?
• Transformation is a lifelong process. What does the fact that God is willing to work within us for a lifetime show us about who he is? Take some time to thank God for his patience and love.
• Is there any part of yourself that you need Jesus to transform? Take some time to talk to Jesus about it. Ask him to help you surrender this part of your life. Trust that when you do, God will begin to transform your heart and desires so that they align with his will.