Biblical Answer

Losing Identity as a Business Owner: A Biblical Perspective

Understanding Identity in a Commodified World

In today's society, our identities are often shaped by the brands and corporations we associate with. We might say we're "owned" by these entities, as Robert Bellah suggests. This possessive individualism can lead to a loss of identity, as we become defined by external factors rather than our true selves. However, as Christians, we're called to identify with Christ, who loves and died for us, rather than with the brands and corporations that seek to profit from our identities.

The Authenticity of Identity in Christ

When we say someone is "not themselves" today, we're not violating the principle of identity. Rather, we're acknowledging that they're acting out of character, given what we know about them. In the same way, as business owners, we must recognize that our true identities are rooted in Christ, not in the external validation of our businesses. This means that even in the midst of entrepreneurial struggles, we can remain authentic and true to ourselves, unshaken by the fluctuations of the market or the pressures of competition.

Finding Identity in Christ, Not in Business

So, why did you lose your identity as a business owner? Perhaps it's because you became too deeply invested in the external validation of your business, rather than in the authentic identity that comes from Christ. As a Christian, your identity is not defined by your business success or failure, but by your relationship with God through Jesus Christ. When you find your identity in Christ, you're no longer subject to the whims of the market or the opinions of others. You're free to be yourself, unencumbered by the pressures of a commodified world. In this sense, losing your identity as a business owner can be a liberating experience, one that allows you to rediscover your true self in Christ.