Identity – Living out who we are in Christ through our work
Devotional week 2
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)
As we continue to reflect on the purpose of work within God’s plan, it is essential to remember that our identity in Christ is the foundation for all we do—including our work. Far too often, the world defines people by their job titles, achievements, or the size of their salaries, creating a subtle trap. As a child, I often heard the question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Consciously or unconsciously, this leads us to place work on a pedestal it was never meant to occupy. This does not mean that work is unimportant—it is, after all, a significant part of our lives. However, as Christians, our identity is not anchored in titles or accomplishments but in Christ.
Work, though meaningful, was never designed to be the centre of who we are. Our true identity lies in being sons and daughters of God. From this place of security, we can see work not as an end in itself, but as an opportunity to glorify God and serve others. This perspective frees us from the relentless pursuit of human validation and enables us to live with purpose.
We are God’s handiwork, uniquely created with gifts and talents to contribute to His Kingdom. Whether you’re managing a business, studying, or working behind the scenes, your worth is not tied to what you do but to who you are in Christ.
In Genesis, we see that humans were created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). This divine imprint shapes how we work. It calls us to approach our tasks with integrity, creativity, and purpose, reflecting His character in all we do.
The beauty of this truth is that it frees us from the pressure to find ultimate fulfillment in our jobs. Instead, we can focus on using our work as an avenue to glorify God, serve others, and grow in Christlikeness.
Practical Insights
Your worth is not tied to your job title or achievements; it is rooted in Christ.
Reflect God's image through your work by embodying virtues like patience, diligence, and compassion.
Use your unique talents and abilities as a testimony to God's creative design in you.
Challenge
This week, reflect on how your identity in Christ shapes your work. Identify one way you can let His character shine through your actions, such as showing patience in a challenging situation or offering kindness to a colleague.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for creating me with purpose and for giving me gifts to use for Your glory. Help me to remember that my identity is rooted in You, not in my work or achievements. Teach me to reflect Your love, grace, and truth in everything I do. May my work honour You and point others to Your goodness. Amen.