Biblical Answer

Finding a New Sense of Self: A Christian Perspective

As a Christian, we believe that our true self is found in our relationship with God. The Bible teaches us that our old self, with its habits, besetting sins, and character flaws, is not our true identity (Romans 6:6, Ephesians 4:22). In fact, the Bible says that our old self is like a beast that seeks to devour us, and it's up to us to deny ourselves and surrender to God (1 Peter 5:8). When we do this, we experience a transformation, a change of mind that results in a change of life (Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34).

This transformation is what the Greek word metanoia means - a change of mind that results in a change of life. When we surrender to God, we change our mind about ourselves. We realize that we are not fundamentally good people deep down, but rather broken and sinful. We also realize that we are not the center of our own existence, but rather creatures who exist to glorify God (Psalm 115:3, Isaiah 43:7). Our true self is found in our relationship with God, and it's through this relationship that we discover our true identity and purpose.

As Christians, we understand that our identity is not found in our achievements, our possessions, or our relationships. Rather, it's found in our relationship with God. When we surrender to God, we find a new sense of self, one that is rooted in our identity as beloved children of God. This new self is not self-centered, but rather God-centered. We find our true self in the depths of God's love and character, and it's through this relationship that we discover our true purpose and identity. In this sense, we can say that our new self is always a work in progress, but it's a work that's guided by God's love and sovereignty.