by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
In 2015, when I lost my teaching job, it felt like I lost everything—my career, my identity, even myself. My mental and physical health had plummeted to their lowest points, and I was drowning in the realization that I had placed my worth in the wrong things. I truly believed my value was tied to my career. I identified solely as a teacher—and nothing else. In doing so, I had neglected so many aspects of who I truly was. I couldn’t even see my role as a mother as valuable at the time because I was so consumed by the world’s definition of success.
I was double-minded. I called myself a follower of Jesus, but my life didn’t reflect His Kingdom. I was stuck in rebellion and poor choices, trapped by a false sense of self-worth and lacking understanding of God’s purpose for my life. I thought I had it all figured out, but the reality was that my beliefs were completely messed up.
After losing my job, my identity began to shatter. In that moment of brokenness, I had no choice but to rely on my relationship with Jesus. I had no motivation to keep going, but I leaned into God, seeking His Word, praying for guidance, and desiring to know the Heart of the Father. In that season, I began to learn my true identity as HIS daughter.
Rebuilding from Rebellion and Double-Mindedness
Because of my choice to live in rebellion and double-mindedness, my relationship with Jesus had to start almost from scratch. For so long, I had built my identity on things that were not of Him—my career, my accomplishments, and the approval of others. When everything I relied on crumbled, I was left to rebuild, beginning with a mindset that needed radical renewal. My heart, once hardened and distracted by worldly pursuits, needed a complete overhaul. The lies I had believed about my purpose, worth, and identity were shattered, and God lovingly began the process of restoring me. He showed me that my value was never in what I did or who I was in the eyes of the world. My true identity, rooted in His love and grace, needed to be rebuilt from the ground up.
Half the battle was realizing what I was not.
I am not defeated. I am not a failure. I am not just a teacher. I am not just a writer. I am not just a mother. I am not just a singer. I am not just a wife. I am not defined by my talents or shortcomings.
I am a daughter of the Most High King.
Knowing God’s heart has completely reshaped my identity, and now I stand victorious not because of anything I’ve done but because of what He has done for me. It’s through His grace and love that I know who I truly am. I am called to abide in Him–to understand that my true identity is found in His love and His purpose for us. As I move forward in life, I must continue to walk in the truth that I am His child—loved, chosen, and redeemed.
The Heart of God for His Children
God’s heart for His children is filled with love, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to our well-being. As a Father, He desires nothing more than to see His children flourish and walk in the fullness of the identity He has given them. His love is not conditional; it is everlasting and unconditional. Through every trial, every failure, and every victory, He is there, guiding, comforting, and refining us. His heart is for us to come to Him just as we are, knowing that He will meet us with grace and mercy. When we understand His heart for us, we begin to fully embrace our identity as His children and walk confidently in His purpose for our lives.
Embracing My True Identity
Just yesterday, I ran into a lady who asked if I was still teaching at Wheeler, and each time I answered, “I no longer teach.” She asked me the same question three more times, and each time I answered with the same response. As I reflected on this moment, I realized how FREEING it is to no longer define myself by what I do. There was no need for me to explain what I do now because my identity is not wrapped up in any career or title. I am not what I do. I am a child of the I AM. In Him, I am whole, and I have found my worth in His love and His calling for me. It took years of learning to let go of false identities, but today I stand firm in the truth that I am His, and that is enough!
Reflection:
When was the last time you truly allowed yourself to rest in God’s love for you? As His children, we are worthy of that love. Not because of anything we’ve done, but because of who He is. Let go of any false identities or burdens you’ve been carrying, and allow Him to shape you into the person He has always called you to be. Reflect on the truth that you are deeply loved, chosen, and cherished by your Heavenly Father.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your endless love and care for me. I am in awe of Your heart for Your children, and I know that I am never alone in this journey. Help me to fully embrace the identity You’ve given me, and to walk in Your love and purpose every day. Soften my heart and open my eyes to see myself as You see me—loved, valued, and redeemed. Teach me to live in the truth of who I am in You, and may Your love fill me so completely that I can’t help but reflect it to those around me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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The Aging English Major 