(This post was written by Michael Wallace, High School Pastor)

Most of our lives are lived in the context of stereotypes.  Without an intentional effort, we can easily become consumed with creating an identity for ourselves based on our circumstances.  It could be a promotion, a relationship, your seat at the lunch table, a financial goal, or any public status symbol.  The truth is that we are all very concerned with how our circumstances affect our identity.

In John 10:10 Jesus explains very clearly that Satan’s chief goal in our world is to “steal, kill and destroy” while He himself came to earth that we “may have life, and have it to the full.”  I truly believe that Satan is way more concerned with stealing your identity than “making you sin.”  Basically, if he can convince you to buy into the lie that the next status symbol, relational or financial goal will complete your identity, you will do anything to make it a reality, including things that separate you from God.  In a nutshell, Satan sells stereotypes!

But there is another option.  As Jesus said, His goal is to give us life, and not one that is only complete when our circumstances line up perfectly.  Jesus came to earth to reconcile us with our family.  Through His death and resurrection He made a way for us to reconnect with our Heavenly Father.  While Satan sells stereotypes, Jesus provides a family.  It really is that simple.

The choice, then, is ours.  Have you accepted your role in the family?  Even after you have accepted Jesus as your savior, are you living each day chasing after a stereotype? Or resting in the arms of a loving Father who cares for you no matter what status you achieve?

Today you have a chance to break out of the typical routine of buying into Satan’s stereotypical lies and see yourself as God sees you.  The full life that Jesus offers begins with an identity that supersedes all of life’s circumstances.  How are you identifying yourself?