Embracing Your Identity-Releasing the Inadequate Mindset

In life, there comes a moment of self-doubt and inadequacy: those feelings nagging at us, whispering, "You're not good enough." And how such feelings do hold one back in life. Let's break free from these lies today into the identity that God called us to step into.

What is Inadequacy?

Inadequacy: feeling you are not qualified or good enough to face the challenges of life. That is a lie meant to cripple and stop you from going in your purpose. But let me tell you something: God's grace is greater than our feelings of insufficiency.

The Power of God's Grace That Transforms

Take, for instance, John Newton, who wrote the hymn Amazing Grace. He was born into a life of rebellion; Newton was an avowed atheist, deeply involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Cruel and in denial of God, that is the portrait of Newton. He had hit rock bottom and was beyond redemption.

Yet here's the kicker: no matter how low we've gone, God's grace is never unreachable. In the middle of a violent storm, Newton was struck with a spiritual awakening that changed the direction of his life. Taming his guilt, he finally found a new identity in Christ that eventually launched him into being an abolitionist of slavery and a voice of hope.

Overcoming the Feeling of Inadequacy

Inadequacy is not just born out of feeling sinful or failing; it often arises when we compare our abilities to those around us, or feel unworthy of our calling. And the Bible is replete with such people-feeling-terribly-inadequate kinds of stories, yet God uses them mightily:

• Moses: He doubted his speaking abilities (Exodus 4:10), but God called him to lead a nation out of slavery.

• Jeremiah was only a young man and felt that his age disqualified him from the task at hand. But God said that was no excuse. Jeremiah 1:6-7.

• Gideon: A weak family with low confidence, even lots of questioning of God's call, God used him as a mighty warrior. Judges 6:14-15.

The Dangers of Inadequacy

Whereas pride and arrogance get all the bad press, inadequacy can be just as damaging. Inadequacy is what keeps us from stepping into leadership roles, sharing our gifts, and making an impact. When we dwell on inadequacies, we're telling God that His grace is not enough; His power can't work through us. But that's just not true.

Reflection: God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. Stop disqualifying yourself!

How to Walk in Your New Identity

The truth is, we're more than our past failures or perceived weaknesses. The Word says we are:

•  Chosen 1 Peter 2:9 Loved- Rom 5:8

• Redeemed Ephesians 1:7

• More than conquerors Romans 8:37

Your identity is not in your shortcomings, but it is in the love and sacrifice of Christ. He gave His life for you, and that's the measure of your worth.

ACTION POINT Identify one lie you have believed about yourself. Then, write it down and find a truth in Scripture that combats that lie. Meditate on that truth this week.

Final Encouragement-Step into Freedom

We all face the lie about our inadequacy, but we do not have to live under those lies. Just like John Newton found his freedom and purpose despite his history, so can you be free in your new identity in Christ? It's time to shake off the lies and step into the truth that God has a purpose for your life no matter where you have come from and what you have done. For no weapons that are formed against you shall prosper- Isaiah 54:17. You are a new creation in Christ, and there is nothing too great for God to overcome in your life.

Takeaway

God is calling you into something so much bigger than what your mind can fathom. Stop allowing feelings of inadequacy to make you retreat but step boldly into the identity He has given you. It's time to trust that God can use you - not because of your abilities, but because of His grace.

This blog post is based on a sermon delivered by Pastor Kele Silikiwai on October 13, 2024, at the City Church Swansea.