“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
–Romans 8:31 (NLT)

When you hear about identity theft, it usually concerns credit card theft, or any number of other forms of misrepresentation. But I would like to submit to you that the main form of identity theft is spiritual. Let me explain what I mean.

As a hospital chaplain who is blind, I’ve had many well-meaning people try to label me. No matter what you are facing, they will attempt to put you in a box as well. But that only highlights the real issue that I want to address here.

No matter what our status in life may be, as Christians our identity can only be found in and through Jesus Christ. But if the real truth is known, most of us do a good job of labeling ourselves. We try to find our identity in things like work, status and extracurricular activities. But we don’t have to do this. I would like to share how this truth became real to me.

When I was growing up, my mom used to tell me not to have a chip on my shoulder. I was not a Christian then, and I guess I was pretty bitter. When I did ask Christ into my life, I found that there were people who loved me and cared about me just the way I was. To them, the man I was in Christ far surpassed the challenges I faced physically, including my blindness. I soon realized that if my Christian friends loved me this much, God’s love must be amazing. With new confidence and boldness, I began to step out into uncharted waters, and the mold that people tried to squeeze me into meant less and less.

Over time, God began to deal with my heart. He showed me that if I would draw on His resources, my real identity as a Christian was in Him, and the same can be true of you. He has shown me in a new way that His strength is made perfect in my weakness. As you draw on that strength, He will do the same for you.

Whatever you’re going through today, you are not alone, for the Bible says that if you know God, you are accepted in Him. You don’t have to compare yourself to anyone else, because God has given you unique gifts and abilities to use for his glory. For me, it has been a challenge learning my way around the hospital, but I eventually figured out how to get around with God’s help. The good news for you is that He will meet you in the challenging areas that you face as well.

You can know beyond the shadow of a doubt that God wants to guide and bless you. Satan is the thief who only wants to steal your identity. Please don’t let this happen. You have a lot to give in Christ. Be encouraged as you walk with God, and watch Him move mountains out of your way. Make Him your top priority by building a relationship with Him, and identity theft will become a thing of the past.

Thank you for reading this, and may the Lord give you a wonderful week! We are trying to reach people who are hurting, so if God lays it on your heart, please consider becoming a partner with us. If you would like to make a donation, please visit www.hcmachaplains.org and click on the Donate Now link. You may also send your donation to HCMA (Healthcare Chaplains Ministry Association). Our ID number is 560. The address is 377 E. Chapman Ave., Suite 260, Placentia, CA 92870.

If you have questions, comments or prayer requests for Timothy or Stephanie Burdick, please call 641-715-3900, ext. 874157.