Many people do not
have the proper perception of themselves. Because of this, many
Christians do not know how to view themselves even as recipients of
God’s salvation. They struggle with who they were, who they are, and
who they will become. Our relationship with Christ brings us into a new
life with a new identity. The Christian, thus, has to see himself as
God sees him and receive his new identity in Christ
.
Neither shall thy name any
more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of
many nations have I made thee. And I will make thee exceeding fruitful,
and I will make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee. Gen
17:5-6 (KJV)
Abraham
received the promise of a son, but that was not enough from God’s
viewpoint. His coming blessing required that Abraham no longer view
himself in the same manner. God changes his name from Abram (which
means Exalted Father) to Abraham (Father of Many). Abraham’s name
change signified what God had purposed him to be. God changed His name
while he was yet childless. However, his name signified his
relationship and covenant with God.
The Christian today has to receive a
spiritual name change. Though people may call you by the same name, it
should not have the same impact. However, it will begin with you
agreeing with God and with who you are in Him. On today, if you know
that you do not see yourself, as God would have you, ask for grace and
strength. He will help you develop the proper self-perception. You will
not think to high of yourself or too low of yourself. Remember, if any
man is in Christ, he is a new creation.