Who am I?

Human beings have long pondered the question, “Who am I?” We seek to understand how we relate to others, often basing our identity and value on what we do or how others perceive us.

In Exodus 3, Moses had an identity crisis that many can relate to. God appeared to Moses and told him he would be the one to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Moses was like, “Um, say what?”

But Moses protested to God, ‘Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?

Exodus 3:11 NLT

Moses was probably the most qualified to appear before Pharaoh. He grew up in the Egyptian palace. He knew the customs. He knew the people. And yet, he questioned his identity and asked God, “Who am I to do these things?”

God didn’t answer by saying who Moses was. Instead, He told Moses, “I will be with you.” Still fixated on identity, Moses asked, “Well, what should I tell the Israelites when they ask what your name is?” 

That’s when God revealed His identity.

God replied to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.’

Exodus 3:14 NLT

By saying “I AM”, God pronounced his infinite and limitless nature. He isn’t bound by time, laws, imagination, or rules. He just is, and He always will be. A little later, God revealed His name, Yahweh.

This is my eternal name, my name to remember for all generations.

Exodus 3:15 NLT

God never explicitly said who Moses was. In the middle of Moses’ identity crisis, God revealed Himself as the I AM and spoke His own name. He linked Moses to Himself in verse 14 so people would know the I AM was with Moses on his mission. In comparison, Moses’ worth was insignificant.

Who am I?

All too often, we doubt our ability to do what God has called us to do. We know our weaknesses and personality flaws, and we assume those will limit what we can accomplish. Just like Moses, we ask, “Who am I to do that, God?”

But here’s the thing: God knows about those flaws and weaknesses, and yet He is greater. Our shortcomings don’t limit Him. He doesn’t define us based on our job titles, ministries, talents, gifts, or what we do for others. He sees us as His children who can make a difference in the world.

When God is working with us, the emphasis moves away from who we are to who He is.

Jen English

To be useful to God, we do not have to be smooth-talking, brilliant, good enough, strong enough, or whatever other trait we think we need to have. He’s looking for a willingness to let Him work in our lives so that people around us can see Him in us. When God is working with us, the emphasis moves away from who we are to who He is.

Yes, God may challenge us in ways that push us out of our comfort zones and stretch our perceived identities. But the I AM is with us every step of the way, reminding us of who we are in Him.

Who am I?

I am a child of God. (John 1:12)

I am made in God’s image. (Genesis 1:27)

I am chosen. (Ephesians 1:4-5)

I am a joint heir with Christ. (Romans 8:17-19)

I am the bride of Christ. (Revelation 19:7-9)

I am known by God. (Psalm 139)

I am redeemed. (Isaiah 54:5)

Author

Jen English is a full-time technology editor who loves to write. She is a Sunday School teacher and member of the worship team at her local church. Her other interests include black coffee, basketball, photography, and the New England Patriots. You can follow Jen on her personal blog: https://jensrandommusings.wordpress.com

1 Comment

  1. Dhana.Coopasamy

    Love to read on how to strengthens my walk with Lord