Who am I? This a common question. As we grow and mature into adulthood, it is important to ask this. We are taking steps and making choices that solidify a picture of self in our minds. It also becomes what we portray to others. Along the way there are things that would cause us to ask that question again: going to college, getting married, moving, experiencing a traumatic event, losing a loved one, losing or getting a job, and new health issues. All of these things could trigger us to begin re-evaluating our identity. That is not a bad thing. Perhaps there are things about our identity that we’ve allowed others to define, and we take these moments to define them for ourselves. Maybe we use one of these moments as a hard reset to an identity that is healthier for us. Those are positive changes. According to psychology, the crisis comes when we can no longer function. We question who we are and what we value. Symptoms of this doubt in identity include: depressed mood or feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, loss of interest in things once enjoyed, fatigue, irritability, changes in appetite or weight, issues with concentration, energy levels, motivation, and sleep.
Can we see how this could affect us spiritually? These symptoms previously mentioned can be experienced spiritually also. The writer of Hebrews talks about strengthening our souls as one would strengthen the body (Heb. 12:12-13). If we lack motivation, the zeal we once had or even the hope set before us, maybe we should ask ourselves, “Who am I?” There are four things we can do to help get our identity back on track.
First, look to God’s word and start applying it and molding ourselves to the image of Christ (Phil. 2:5-11). If we lose focus, we can allow things into our lives that subtly subvert our new identity in Christ.
Second, look for the joy you once had in the faith. There are many things we can do to find that joy in service. Many times, “I’m too busy” robs us of opportunities to serve and feel the joy of true servanthood. We are to serve God, and we can do that by serving others.
Third, ignore the external and internal judgment. Society around us will not be in line with the image we are trying to make for ourselves in Christ. We are sometimes our own worst critic when it comes to doubt and shame. Do not let those things define who you are.
Lastly, seek support from those around you. There are so many who are all trying to follow the same identity. Together there is strength in striving for the same goal. Do not let your identity become a crisis. We are designed with an identity in mind. Anything less is a crisis.