Wrap up in your true identity

We’re talking about the armor of God this morning.

And I’m stuck on the breastplate.

I’ve never spent much time thinking about it, I guess.

But the piece of armor that protects your heart is crucial.

Righteousness.

It’s imparted sinlessness.

Conformity to the claims of a higher authority.

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.  (Romans 3:22)

Righteousness is what God says about you, friends.

That because of an undeserved sacrifice, your debt has been paid.

You are clean.

Your enemy is no fool.

He will go after your heart.

You’ll never be good enough, he’ll lie.

No one could ever love you after what you’ve done.

You better keep quiet.  Work harder.  Run faster.  Prove yourself.

You’re a fraud.  A hypocrite.

Even after growing into my Jesus-identity for a lot of years, these fiery arrows still catch my attention.

But, dear one, they are lies.

All lies.

I want to look into your eyes tonight and tell you this.

I really, really do.

But since you aren’t here, dear one, please, please, please…

Wrap up in your true identity.

Lock eyes with your Father.

Hear his gentle words spoken over you…

Words of forever-truth that can’t be shaken.

That because of an undeserved sacrifice, your debt has been paid.

You are clean.

There is no condemnation here.

You don’t have to be enough… he already was.

You are not alone.

And you are desperately, passionately, forever loved.