Day 146: Your New Name: Beloved! — Still Walking devotional artwork
Day 146 of 365 · Still Walking by Shane Dodson

Your New Name: Beloved!

When we step into Christ, we step into a new story, a new `identity` that redefines everything. Friend, have you ever felt the weight of an old story…

Scripture
"So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

— Galatians 3:26-28

From the book "Still Walking"
"When we step into Christ, we step into a new story, a new `identity` that redefines everything."

Friend, have you ever felt the weight of an old story pressing down on you? Maybe it’s a label someone gave you years ago, or a mistake from your past that still whispers in your ear. Perhaps it’s a career path that didn't quite work out, or a dream that felt like it shattered into a thousand pieces. We all carry these pieces of our former selves, these old identities that seem to cling to us like stubborn burrs. You try to shake them off, but they dig in deeper, defining you by what you *used* to be, or what you *haven't* yet become. It’s a heavy load, isn’t it? Living under the constant pressure to measure up, to prove yourself, to outrun the echoes of disappointment. But I've got some good news, truly good news, that’s going to lift that load right off your shoulders!

Here's the incredible, life-changing truth: when you step into Christ, you step into a brand-new story. The moment you give your heart to Jesus, those old labels, those past failures, those societal expectations – they all fall away. The scripture beautifully declares, “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.” Did you catch that, friend? You are a *child of God*! Not a child of your past, not a child of your mistakes, but a child of the King of kings! This isn't just a nice thought; it’s your new, official, eternally secure identity. Your worth isn’t based on your performance, your background, or what anyone else thinks. It’s a done deal, settled in heaven.

Think about it: a child of God. That means you are inherently valuable, deeply loved, and perfectly accepted. You can walk with your head held high, knowing that the Creator of the universe calls you His own. You might still face challenges, and sure, the old voices might try to sneak back in. But now, you have a new perspective. When those doubts surface, you can declare, “That’s not who I am anymore! I am a beloved child of God!”

This isn't about ignoring your past; it's about seeing your present and your future through the lens of God's amazing grace. When you embrace this truth, you’ll find a new strength, a quiet confidence that doesn't depend on your own abilities. It comes from knowing that your Heavenly Father is holding you, guiding you, and cheering you on. Your identity in Christ is secure, eternal, and perfectly loved. So today, shed those old garments of doubt and step into your royal robes. You are a child of God, and that, my friend, changes everything. Live from that place of secure love and unwavering worth. Your best days are still ahead!

Reflect

What old label or limiting belief have you been carrying that you're ready to lay down at the feet of Jesus, truly embracing your identity as a beloved child of God?

Today's prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of a new identity in Christ. Thank You for shedding the old labels and giving us a new name: Beloved. Help us to truly grasp the depth of Your love and to walk confidently as Your children. Empower us to shed every old story that tries to define us and embrace the powerful truth of who You say we are. We thank You that in You, our worth is settled, our future is bright, and our joy is complete. Amen.

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