How to Embrace Your Identity in ChristSample

A Work-in-Progress Masterpiece

You’re a masterpiece.

How do you feel when you read that sentence? Joy? Skepticism? Confusion?

When we think of a masterpiece, we tend to think of something like a genre-defining song or a world-famous painting. Masterpieces are perfect, valuable, and often famous. Do you feel like that describes you?

If you’re like many Christians, you might occasionally find it hard to identify as a masterpiece. Not just because you’re exceptionally humble, but also because, on any given day, it can be hard to feel valuable, famous, and perfect.

So why does God call us masterpieces?

Well, you’re valuable because God sacrificed Himself for you. And while you might not have millions of followers, you are known and loved by the Creator of the universe, which means that you can get away with calling yourself famous to God. And because you’ve been forgiven by Jesus, you’re seen as perfect in God’s eyes.

Of course, God knows we still have room to grow as we pursue our life-giving identity. But we don’t chase Jesus and avoid sin to perfect ourselves. We do those things because it’s how we were made to live—and we find the most joy in life as we love God through serving others.

What does this mean? It means we can be a work in progress and a masterpiece at the same time.

Do you have room to grow as you follow Jesus? Of course. We all do. But you’re also a masterpiece, made by God to do good works. So when feelings of shame, insecurity, and unworthiness creep into your mind, remind yourself who you really are, according to God, your Maker.

Prayer: Dear God, thank You for making me a masterpiece. I might not always feel worthy of the title, but I believe that I am who You say I am. Help me to adjust the labels I give myself so I can live with joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge: Today, think about the labels you’ve given yourself. God doesn’t see you as a failure, mistake, mess-up, or has-been. He calls you a beloved masterpiece with a purpose.