So often, we hold on to old versions of ourselves—who we used to be before we fully understood our identity in Christ.
Maybe you’ve struggled with past failures, labels others have placed on you, or even the way you’ve seen yourself for years. These parts of your old identity can become a burden, keeping you from embracing the new creation you are in Christ.
God’s Word tells us that when we come to Him, our old self is gone, and we are made new; 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV).
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Yet, we sometimes allow past mistakes, insecurities, or the opinions of others to shape how we view ourselves today.
It’s time to let go of those old labels, limitations, and false identities that have been holding you back!
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Stepping Into Your God-Given Identity
In Christ, you are not defined by your past.
Your identity is no longer tied to who you used to be or what others have said about you.
You are defined by what God says about you.
And He says you are chosen, loved, forgiven, and redeemed. Letting go of your past identity means fully stepping into who God has called you to be—His beloved child, created with purpose.
As you embrace this new identity, you will find freedom from the weight of shame, guilt, or failure. God’s love for you is unconditional, and it’s time to see yourself the way He sees you.
You are no longer bound by your old identity, and you don’t have to carry it with you into the future.
Breaking Free from Labels and Limitations
Our past identities often come with labels that limit us—“failure,” “unworthy,” “not enough.”
These labels might have been given to us by others, or we may have placed them on ourselves because of past mistakes.
But in Christ, these labels no longer apply. He has given you a new name, and it’s time to break free from the lies and limitations that your old identity has placed on you.
The world might remind you of who you once were, but God sees you through the lens of His grace and love.
Letting go of your past identity allows you to live fully in the freedom that comes from knowing who you are in Christ. You are called to live boldly, knowing that your worth and value are found in Him alone.
Reflect and Move On
Take a moment to reflect: Are you still carrying the weight of your past identity?
Do you find yourself held back by old labels, failures, or opinions that no longer define who you are in Christ?
It’s time to release those identities that are not in line with what God says about you.
And put on your new identity in Christ!
Ask yourself if you’ve been holding on to past insecurities or doubts about who you are. Have you allowed the mistakes of your past to define your present and your future?
Now is the time to let go and embrace the truth that you are a new creation in Christ. Your identity is secure in Him, and His love for you is what defines you.
You can continue with the other Biblical truths to help you let go of the past devotions:
Bible Study & Reflection Questions
Reflection Questions
- What past labels or identities have you been holding on to?
- How has your old identity impacted the way you see yourself today?
- What does it mean to you to be a “new creation” in Christ?
- In what ways has God already shown you who you are in Him?
- How can you remind yourself daily of your identity in Christ?
Practical Application Questions
- Write down one label or false identity you’ve been carrying and replace it with the truth of who you are in Christ.
- How can you actively reject the opinions of others that don’t align with God’s view of you?
- Memorize 2 Corinthians 5:17 and declare it over yourself each morning. How does this shift your mindset?
- Reflect on a time when you allowed past mistakes to define your actions. How can you let go of those mistakes and walk confidently in your new identity?
- How can you encourage someone else who might struggle with their past identity to embrace the truth of who they are in Christ?
Letting go of your past identity is a journey, but it’s one that leads to incredible freedom and joy.
When you fully embrace who you are in Christ, you will experience the peace and confidence that comes from knowing your worth is found in Him alone.
Remember, you are not who you once were. You are a new creation, called and loved by God.
Let go of the past and step boldly into the future He has for you. You are His, and that is your true identity.
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