We all struggle with identity. I know it’s kind of a harsh and in-your-face way to start this post, but it’s the truth. From a very young age, we always ask kids what they want to be when they grow up. We are continually asking other people what they do for a living, what they love, and who they feel that they are. In the world we live in, saturated with social media and the need for acceptance and belonging, it’s hard to find true identity. I don’t believe our true identity lies in our job, career, or what we love the most. Yes, those things and people we love greatly influence who we are, but our identity lies in God and what He says about us.

I felt in my heart to share what I believe may help others realize who they are and where they belong. Not too long ago I was a person who truly struggled (and I mean it consumed me completely) with what others thought of me. I was always trying so desperately to “belong” or “fit in” and would do anything to get other people to like me. And guess what friends? It’s something I still struggle with today. Thankfully it is no where near the degree to which it was before, but there are days that I sit down and think “If I could only get this person to notice me” or “I wish my life was like this persons, so everyone would like me” Can I get a witness?! At these times, where I find myself feeling discouraged, and longing for the sense of belonging, I turn to God because He is the only one who gives me identity!

Don’t get me wrong, it’s really nice to have that sense of belonging, but at the end of the day, it’s all about how you feel inside, and without true identity, you are still empty and lonely. In our industry, it’s all about who you know, who you work with, and who has the most likes on Instagram and Facebook. In reality, all those things are superficial and just because someone has 100,000 followers, does’t mean they don’t go to bed lonely and sad. I know that God loves me, that I am His daughter, and that there is nothing I can do to make Him love me any less. I know that no mater how many followers, likes or social media friends I have, my hope and joy is in Jesus. Even if I couldn’t take one more picture, or meet one more amazing couple, or write one more blog post, I know who I am in God.

So if you’re struggling with knowing who you are, fitting in, or belonging, know that you are not alone. We have all been there and everyone struggles with the need to be loved. But I challenge you to sit in a quiet room and speak to God. Ask Him to show you who you are and who He wants you to be. Allow God to speak to your heart and open it to receive His love. Take it from me, your life will never be the same again.

Happy Thursday friends!