Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity With Jennifer SlatteryNäide

You are called.

As mentioned previously, it took me twenty years to earn my college degree. Although our numerous moves didn’t help, my greatest challenge stemmed from constantly changing majors. I spent way too many semesters, and far too much money, trying to fill my need for purpose in my own wisdom. Although a Christ-follower who, supposedly, trusted His plans for my life, I focused on finding the most economically stable career rather than seeking His will. Because I let fear, rather than Jesus, lead me, everything felt futile.

That changed once I courageously embraced the call to write and speak for God—an endeavor I knew would be far from lucrative. That was sixteen years ago, and while this hasn’t been a financially profitable endeavor, it has resulted in deep fulfillment and satisfaction. I’ve discovered the joy of living called and the relational intimacy that comes when we align ourselves with God’s will, lovingly crafted for us, before we took our first breath.

If you’ve trusted in Christ for salvation, you’re called as well. As His image bearer, your greatest and most enduring assignments are to know Him and make Him known. He will show you how best to use your current circumstances, experiences, and unique gifts to glorify Him. That said, if you aren’t sure how He wants to use you in this season, don’t fret. Trust Him to reveal His will in His perfect timing and to lead you, even when you’re not aware that He’s doing so.

Journal prompt:

In what ways are you resisting or embracing God’s will for your life? How does (or might) pursuing His call lead to purpose and fulfillment? Why might following His lead, rather than fear or selfish ambition, result in increased peace and satisfaction?