1st August 2026
Alex Buabeng-Korsah
TOPIC: GOD RESTORES IDENTITY
THEME SCRIPTURE: “He said, ‘Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.’” — Genesis 32:28
PREPARATORY QUESTION
Are your daily choices reflecting the identity God has given you or the person you used to be?
When God changed Jacob's name to Israel, He did more than give him a new title—He declared a new identity. Jacob, the "grabber" and deceiver, was now Israel, a man whose future would be defined by God's purpose rather than his past.
Yet Jacob did not become perfect overnight. Scripture occasionally refers to him as Jacob even after his name was changed, reminding us that spiritual growth is a journey. Although God had declared who he was, Jacob still had to learn to live consistently with that new identity.
The same is true for every believer. In Christ, God has given us a new identity. We are no longer defined by our failures, fears, or former way of life. We are His children, called to reflect His character and represent His kingdom. The challenge is not receiving that identity but walking in it every day.
This requires intentional obedience. Every decision to forgive, trust God, reject temptation, or act with integrity is a step that aligns our lives with who God says we are. Transformation becomes visible as our conduct catches up with our calling.
Do not allow your past to dictate your future. God's declaration over your life is greater than your history. Live today as someone who belongs to Him, trusting that He will continue to shape your character until it reflects Christ.
Key Takeaway
God gives you a new identity before He completes your transformation. Your responsibility is to walk daily in who He says you are.
Precious one, refuse to let yesterday define today's choices. Embrace your identity in Christ and let your life increasingly reflect the work God is doing within you.
Remain blessed.
FURTHER READING: Genesis 32:27–28; Genesis 35:9–15; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:22–24; Colossians 3:9–10.
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD
1. What labels from your past are you still allowing to shape your thinking?
2. Which aspect of your identity in Christ do you need to embrace more fully?
3. What practical change can you make today to live in alignment with God's calling?
PRAYER
Father, thank You for giving me a new identity through Your grace. Help me not to be controlled by my past or limited by my weaknesses. Teach me to live each day in a way that reflects who You have called me to be. Continue Your transforming work in me until my thoughts, words, and actions bring You glory. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.