We often want a checklist of things we need to do in order to be considered a good Christian. I go to church (check). I read my Bible (check). I tithe (check). I volunteer a few times or sponsor a child (check). I am DOING Christianity. In fact, my first year of missionary work was to prove my worth to God. Then Cairo happened. While we were allowed to be Christian and go to church, our meetings and much of our ministerial work had to be done in secret so we wouldn’t get kicked out of the country. I remember God challenging me in my heart of hearts – was I willing to serve in Cairo whether or not anyone saw me? Could I be faceless in ministry and not receive any accolades? Is ministry my identity in Christ or is ministry a response and a result of my identity in Christ?

God challenged me to go beyond doing and to start being. God loves me; therefore, I desire to deepen my relationship with him so I read my Bible and pray. God knows who I am; therefore, I choose to use the way he made me to bring him glory in all that I say and do. God has given me a new name and a true identity; therefore, I respond through service and spiritual habits that keep me abiding in him. Everything I do now flows from who I am in Christ.