Counsels on Social Issues

Counsel #19 — Identity

Picture: Counsel #19 — Identity CSI 37.1

Figuring out who you are is hard enough, but when race is part of that journey, it can feel even more complicated. Racial identity development is about understanding how your background, culture, and the way others see you all shape how you see yourself. Sometimes you might feel proud of where you come from, such as in moments of historical celebrations or esteemed recognition. Other times, you might feel pressure to fit into someone else’s expectations because being a minority just doesn’t “make the cut” in that circumstance. CSI 37.2

Whatever the situation, as you grow and deal with the trials of this life, you’ll start to realize that your racial and cultural identity isn’t something to hide or fight against - it’s a part of your story that God intentionally designed. The goal isn’t to become what society expects but to become fully who God created you to be. Navigating your racial identity with honesty and faith helps you walk in freedom and confidence - not measured by the world’s standards, but by the worth God placed in you from the start.^[76] CSI 37.3

“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 NIV CSI 37.4

“A great lesson is learned when we understand our relation to God, and His relation to us.” Ellen White in God’s Amazing Grace, p. 173 CSI 37.5

Reflect: What’s one adjective that you constantly use to describe yourself? CSI 37.6