Moving Beyond “Who Am I?” to “Who is God?”
We all spend countless hours crafting the perfect image to present to the world. But what happens when the lights go out and we’re left alone with our reflection? When we strip away our accomplishments, relationships, and possessions, who are we really?
The Empty Search for Identity
We often try to define ourselves through external markers – our careers, roles, talents, and appearances. But these things are fleeting. When businesses fail, relationships end, or health declines, we’re left feeling lost and empty.
Like Moses, many of us run from our true identity, trying to maintain a carefully constructed facade. But running only leads us further from who God created us to be.
Moses: A Case Study in Identity Crisis
After fleeing Egypt, Moses spent 40 years in the wilderness, far from his calling. Instead of leading his people, he was tending sheep – literally and figuratively lost. But God had bigger plans.
When God appeared in the burning bush, Moses asked the familiar question: “Who am I?” God’s response is telling – He doesn’t answer Moses’ question about identity. Instead, He simply says “I will be with you.”
Why Do We Question Our Worth?
Moses wasn’t alone in his self-doubt. Consider these biblical examples:
Gideon saw himself as the weakest of the weak
Jeremiah thought he was too young
Isaiah felt unworthy and unclean
In each case, God’s response wasn’t about their abilities
– it was about His presence and power.
The Truth About Identity
The key revelation is this: It’s not about who we are, but about who God is. Our identity isn’t found in:
Our abilities or limitations
Our past failures or successes
Our social status or roles
Instead, our identity is found in God’s presence and promises:
“I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12)
“I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5)
“The Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9)
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to shift your focus from self to God:
When you catch yourself asking “Who am I?”, redirect the question to “Who is God?”
Instead of focusing on your limitations, focus on God’s unlimited power
Rather than dwelling on your inadequacies, rest in God’s sufficiency
Ask yourself:
Where am I seeking identity outside of God?
How might my life change if I truly believed God was with me?
What is God calling me to do that I’m avoiding due to self-doubt?
Remember: Being a Christian isn’t about religious duties – it’s about having a relationship with God. When we put Him first, everything else falls into place. Your true identity isn’t found in the mirror, but in the One who created you.