“The mature children of God are those who are moved by the impulses of the Holy Spirit. And you did not receive the “spirit of religious duty,” leading you back into the fear of never being good enough. But you have received the “Spirit of full acceptance,” enfolding you into the family of God. And you will never feel orphaned, for as he rises up within us, our spirits join him in saying the words of tender affection, “Beloved Father!”
– Romans 8:14-15 (TPT)
This week, Pastor Ben shared a powerful message about knowing our identity in Christ—understanding that we are not just accepted by God, but fully loved, chosen, and favored—His favorite child! When we begin to see ourselves as He sees us, we step into our true destiny and purpose.
From the very beginning in Genesis, the enemy has been attacking identity—lying, stealing purpose, and diverting destinies. Pastor Ben reminded us that when we don’t know who we are as God’s favored son or daughter, it becomes easy to fall for the enemy’s deceptions and settle for less than what God intended. He used the example of being under a pile of dirty laundry and not able to rise above it.
Pastor shared the story of Joseph, in Genesis 37, who never lost sight of his identity. He knew he was his father’s favorite son and held on to the dream God gave him, no matter what happened. Though he endured betrayal, slavery, and false imprisonment, he never let go of the truth that he was deeply loved by God and his father's favorite son. Because of that, he served with excellence in every season of his life and kept rising to the top—until the day God’s dream and purpose for him was fulfilled.
When we truly know our identity, we understand why we were created and trust that our Father’s plan for us is always good and will be accomplished in us.
Pastor Ben said, “You were created uniquely—no one else is like you. You can reach people in a way no one else can.” Pastor Ben also had a special encouragement for those who feel like it’s too late for them to make an impact. He shared that studies show the most productive decade of a person’s life is between 70-80 years old! When you’ve spent years drinking from the rivers of living water, the sweetest fruit comes in your maturity. God isn’t done with you yet!
Our identity isn’t found by looking back—at our past, our earthly parents, our victories, or our failures. It is found by looking up—at our perfect Father! What He says about you is the only thing that matters.
Pastor Ben concluded with this powerful challenge: Start believing you are God’s favorite. When you do, you’ll see everything change around you. None of us like being around people who merely tolerate us—but when you know you’re the favorite, there’s no place you’d rather be!
This message is so important—you may want to watch it over and over again until you believe it. When you do, it will change your destiny!
Click here to watch the full sermon!