Identity by Elisabeth Elliot

The search for recognition hinders faith. We cannot believe so long as we are concerned with the "image" we present to others. When we think in terms of "roles" for ourselves and others, instead of simply doing the task given us to do, we are thinking as the world thinks, not as God thinks. The thought of Jesus was always and only for the Father. He did what He saw the Father do. He spoke what He heard the Father say. His will was submitted to the Father's will. "You have no love for God in you," He said to the Pharisees. "I have come accredited by my Father, and you have no welcome for me....How can you have faith so long as you receive honor from one another, and care nothing for the honor that comes from him who alone is God?" (Jn 5:42-44 NEB).

I don't think I'm currently struggling with wanting recognition (although I am to some extent in my marriage right now), but I do find this very enlightening as we start to take on different "roles" in church, in our neighborhood, and with our friends. My husband has roles as husband, father, and employee and I have roles as housewife and mother. But we had many roles where we lived before - callings, maybe - and we thought that was the way God wanted it. But I hear above that taking on and identifying ourselves with roles is in fact, NOT what God intends. I can see that. When I tag myself with a title, I almost instantly become prideful of it. I bring it out whenever I describe myself ("I was a bible study discussion leader, co-coordinator of MOPS, etc"). What SHOULD happen is that I say, rather, "The Lord called me to be a discussion leader last year." Forcing myself to say it that way puts the honor back on God instead of me (at least in my mind - it still could sound arrogant to others). AND it leaves room for God to call me to another role in the future. For many, their roles become so associated with them that they become obligated to continue even when it's not His will. I would love to be the instrument God uses to do MANY different types of ministries. for instance, I would thoroughly enjoy holding the pen (or typing on the keys as it may be) as He writes some spiritual literature. I want to have each of our neighbors to our house for dinner and make it a weekly occurrence that we host someone new. I would also love to co-lead (with hubby) a neighborhood bible study if He leads us that way! I can't wait to see what He has in store for us here in the future. Whatever it is, may He receive ALL the glory and honor!!!

Father, thank You for ministering to others through me. I strongly desire to be used in any way You see fit. I want my life to be a living testimony of Your love and faithfulness. Renew my passion for You. Renew my energy for living as a crucified disciple. Renew my effectiveness in the roles You've given me and remind me not to identify myself with any other roles that would steal Your praise. May my identity be most accurately described by 2 words: Sinner and Saved. Amen.