Biblical Answer

The Commodification of Identity: A Loss of True Ownership

As a business owner, you may have felt a sense of pride and accomplishment in building your brand and creating a successful venture. However, this sense of ownership can be an illusion, a product of the commodification of identity. According to Robert Bellah, possessive individualism has created a society where our identities are shaped by external forces, such as multinational corporations, rather than by our own values and beliefs. This can lead to a loss of true ownership and a sense of disconnection from our authentic selves.

The Freedom of Being a Steward

In contrast to the idea of ownership, the concept of stewardship offers a liberating alternative. As a Christian, you may recognize that your identity is not rooted in your business or possessions, but in your relationship with Christ. This perspective allows you to see yourself as a steward of the assets and resources you have been given, rather than as the owner. This shift in perspective can bring a sense of freedom and peace, as you are no longer bound by the fear of loss or the pressure to constantly accumulate more. By recognizing that your identity is rooted in your relationship with Christ, you can live with a sense of purpose and direction, even in the midst of uncertainty.

Finding True Identity in Christ

In the end, the question of why you lost your identity as a business owner is not about the external circumstances of your business or financial situation, but about your relationship with Christ. As the Bible teaches, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10). Your true identity is not found in your business or possessions, but in your relationship with Christ and the good works that He has prepared for you to do. By focusing on this relationship and living out your faith in practical ways, you can find a sense of purpose and identity that is not subject to the whims of external circumstances. As the apostle Paul writes, "I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13). May you find strength and identity in Christ, and may you live out your faith with confidence and purpose.