Who Am I?
It’s a popular question. Usually used in the teen years, when we try to “find ourselves”. As if we were ever really lost. Yet, part of us still feels empty. And that void is unable to be filled by anyone. That is, except for Jesus Christ.
We try to fill it with a busy social life. That can include friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, drugs, alcohol, sex, school, sports, or our jobs. Anything we find even remotely fulfilling, we start to fill our life with. Either to keep us busy, or to avoid something else.
What is the solution? Simple. Fill your life only with things that are most important. They may not be things you necessarily enjoy, but are high in priority. Such as: faith, family, and your job. In that order.
1. Faith
When we think of faith, we think of church. Perhaps some see it as a crutch. But to me, and many Christians worldwide, it is so much more than that. In faith there is humility; we must admit that we are, in fact, only human. In faith there is trust; humans cannot trust in themselves, for the human heart and mind is fickle; easily deceived. There’s a certain kind of beauty in knowing you are created in the image of the Most High. “I am fearfully and wonderfully made, marvelous are thy works and my soul knoweth right well.” (Psalm 139:14)
2. Family
The world’s definition of family ranges. The politically correct definition of the word is: Any group of people, regardless of gender, may be called a family. And it’s legal. Whether it’s two men, or two women, or one woman and one man, any combination is deemed acceptable. We are told to be “more accepting” of the world. But the world is not accepting of our beliefs. They have to make it a matter of politics when, in reality, it is a matter of morals and belief. To the world, Christians are seen as eccentrics carrying a large rule book. But, really, we only have one general rule. Love God. If you love Him, you’ll want to get to know Him. And in getting to know Him, you’ll learn to love Him. In loving Him, you’ll start to love others, too. And it will be evident in your life.
3. Career
As teenagers, we are encouraged to be certain of how we want our lives to turn out at the ripe ages of seventeen and eighteen years old. But why? Studies show that more than 90% of college students change their area of study within the first year. So how are we supposed to know before the first year of college? We hear parents and teachers warn us that if we don’t pay attention in school, we won’t be able to get a good job to earn lots of money. While it is more important for boys, as the head of the home, to have a good job, girls shouldn’t slack off either. My mom always told me that it was perfectly okay for me, as a girl, to want a career. But she also cautioned me that I should have something to fall back on in the case that my future husband would be unable to work. There are obviously many beliefs in this area, but when it comes to a career choice, the only one that will be truly fulfilling is the one that God lays on your heart. It may not be what your parents want for you, but more than likely, they will support you. Especially if they want God’s best in your life.
For Teenagers
I, personally, despise the way that society defines us. Teenagers around America are all doing the same things. Society is turning us into an army of mindless robots. Why do we always have to have or do what everyone else does? Can’t we be the unique, beautiful creatures God intended us to be? Society tells us to be our own person, to create our own identity for ourselves. But if you’re the slightest bit different from their guidelines, you’re branded as a freak, or weird. Labels can hurt, so don’t be quick to negatively label others. “Do unto others what you would have them do unto you.” In other words, treat people how you want to be treated. There is no condemnation in the golden rule.
So let’s answer the question: “Who Am I?”
Simple.
You are God’s.
The masterpiece that was perfectly and skillfully crafted in the image of the Almighty God. And once you realize that, you will find that ultimately, you are happy with who you are, and your days of searching will be over.