You Were Born Rich

Yesterday we talked about Pride and Prejudice’s own Mr. Collins and his constant name dropping and self promotion, and how his security was all wrapped up in his aquaintance with “Lady Catherine de Bourgh.” ha,ha

Why do we cling to labels, find security in positions, or try to identify with “groups” or movements?

Or some women identify themselves by the past. They are actually held in bondage by memories. Some memories are painful and others could be of percieved success in the past. When you dwell on the past, you forfeit the present. Their baggage could include constantly recalling:

What they did before salvation–illicit relationships, abortion, drugs, crime

What was done to them–mistreatment, abuse, rape

Past success or the “Glory Days” when they were someone.

Their stuff– they value themselves based on what they have or don’t have; their net worth.

Their sacrifice- Thoughts like, I did all the right things and this is how God let my life turn out. They dwell on all they’ve done for others–a ministry, a family member, or a company–and wonder where the appreciation went.

How do we find security in Christ? How do we feel comfortable in our own skin?

By getting a glimpse of our position IN CHRIST.

When you are in Christ, you are a joint heir with Him. In essence, we are born rich when we are born again. All that we have is in Christ and because of Christ. Insecurities will vanish when you realize the great love that He had for you and the great lengths that He undertook for you. What on this earth could be better than that?

Imagine you receive a letter that you are now the heir of a wealthy uncle’s estate. Pretty exciting. But now realize that you are a co-heir with Christ, and your inheritance is waiting for you in heaven. Even better than being an earthly heir!

I am studying Ephesians with a good friend, and in my study I saw the contrast between those who do not have a relationship with Christ and those who who do.

Ephesians 2 describes two sets of people:

those who reject Christ are described as —–>aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers from the covenants of promise, far off from Christ, having no hope and without God in the world.

But IN Christ——-> we are brought near by the blood of Christ, reconciled,  fellow citizens with the saints,  and members of the house of God.

Some other things Christ did for us:

• chose us
• adopted us
• accepted us
• redeemed us
• forgave us
• revealed God’s will to us
• sealed us with the Holy Spirit
• blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places

So, why view yourself as a pauper when you were “born rich” when you were born again into Christ’s family?

If you don’t understand all that you have in Christ, I would encourage you to read the book of Ephesians through today.

I have a feeling that once you are done you won’t feel the need to name drop, or cling so tightly to those meaningless labels. 🙂