Identity: Seeing Yourself Through God's Eyes

by Conrad Hilario

You could describe the current state of our culture in two words, identity crisis. Many of us are searching for something solid upon which to secure our identity. Some root their identity in their race or ethnicity. Others take their sense of identity from their political and social views. For a growing number, identity is determined by one's gender or sexuality. This problem of identity is nothing new. We have always tried to define ourselves by the things we have or do. And yet, the issue with constructing our own identity is that it can topple at any moment. God solved this complicated problem with a simple solution. He's given us a new identity in Christ. This gives us a stable anchor point to which we can attach our identity. Who we are in Christ never changes because God's view of us never changes. Identity is a month-long, daily devotion designed to help you discover who you are in Christ. Each chapter takes one aspect of your new identity, draws out its significance, and applies it to your life. As you learn more about who you are in Christ, it will transform how you see yourself, others, and reality.

Genres: Christian

220 pages, Paperback

Published December 12, 2023

Reviews

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conrad Hilario is a man who has learned that who he is in Christ is really the truth about him and his life. He spent some youthful years in a gang (or two). Now, he's the pastor of a 4000-member congregation. And over those years? He has come to know -- and become convinced of -- what the Bible says about the Conrad who put his faith in Christ.

Written in 28 chapters, this book begins with a Scripture or two, about who we are in Christ. The chapters cover chapters with titles like these: New Creation in Christ; Adopted Son or Daughter; Citizen of Heaven; Salt + Light; Servant of Christ; God's Friend; Child of God. In them, Conrad unpacks the truths about what and who a Christ-follower is. And they're powerful.

This exceptional book could be used in a small group; as a devotional; as a book read cover-to-cover; or even a resource when a person is struggling with some of the issues Conrad covers. Each of these would be effective and encouraging. Maybe even life-changing.

I highly recommend this. I've enjoyed every word, and have learned more than I realized I needed to know!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first line of Identity hits the nail on the head. There are so many people who seek their identity by the color of their skin, their sexuality, gender, political stance, etc. But this book shines a light on the fact that we, as Christians, can define who we are by WHO’s we are.

God sees us so different than how the world views us. And our identity in Christ is what really matters. I love reading about how He sees me, and who He says I am.

I love the short readings and though they are relatively simple, I appreciate how enlightening they are. This is a unique devotional, and timely for a very confused world. I especially enjoyed the sections that tell us to be careful and be aware what we allow in our hearts and minds. The perfect book for someone who might be going through difficult times and needs a pick-me-up.

First Line: You could describe the current state of our culture in two words: Identity crisis.
Genre: Christian Devotional
Author: Conrad Hilario
Page Count: 220

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.

[Chris Risley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Identity: Seeing Yourself Through God's Eyes" is a 28-day devotional from Dwell Community Church senior pastor Conrad Hilario. I highly recommend this book and want to encourage you to consider reading this either in your time with God or with a friend.

"Identity" contains simple truths with profound application. If you have been a Christian for 6 months or 6 decades, this book will encourage you when you learn how God views you, as well as challenge you as you reflect on how these identity truths can impact your life and your relationships.

Our church often teaches about a believer's identity in Christ but we don't always have the time to flesh out all of the different implications. Each day of this devotional is a Scriptural exploration of a unique facet of our identity in Christ. Conrad uses examples from his own life, art, sports, parenting, and Christian & secular authors to both explain the concepts and help explore what happens if we do or don't believe these truths.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this book offers life transformation that is both attainable and lasting. The chapters are easy to read daily, not too long. But also challenging in that it can be convicting and inspiring. It is clear and concise. Expresses the ideas clearly without a bunch of big theology words. The book is rooted in scripture and starts each day with verses to reflect on, and ends with a prayer. This book helps shift readers’ self-perception of identity and worth away from worldly notions of trying harder to please God, achieving a certain level of performance to feel good about self, or taking pride in our skills or gifts. It really takes the pressure off to make our worlds perfect, because they never will be. A biblical perception of identity will transform our feelings, fuel our worship, and empower our service in the kingdom of God. If you are still searching for an amazing and inspiring Christmas gift, look no further.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Identity is not about the way we see ourselves, but by seeing ourselves through God's eyes. God solved our identity problem when HE gave us a new identity in Christ. Identity is a month-long devotional about your change within, based on your following Jesus commands and promises. Jesus transforms us into a new person when we receive his forgiveness for our sins and accept HIM as our Savior. We learn to trust in his ability to guide us into a much richer life, give us peace even in times of despair, and give us the knowledge of an eternal life.

Identity is well-written book, filled with Biblical truths and scripture, and has end notes at the back of the book stating his references for each chapter. The book is a wonderful reminder of who we are in Christ, and our responsibility to spread his love to others.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Kelsey Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute joy to read!

Who am I? And what am I worth? These are questions that gnaw at us. The author seeks to answer these questions and more, from the viewpoint of the all knowing, unchanging God..... The God, who loves you as his son or daughter.

This book is accessible enough for the person who is investigating what the Bible has to say on these important topics. And deep enough, that I, being a Christian for many years, was grateful that these chapters are short and appear to be intended to read one at a time. I needed some time to let this book soak!

[Tyra Crumrine · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a devotional to read, this is the one for you! Many of the verses you’ve probably heard before, but Hilario explains them in a new way that you would have never thought of. He’s a great writer with a gifting in metaphors! I recommend this to all Christian’s who are struggling with their identity in Christ. Even if you’re not struggling, still a great reminder that our identity is in Christ and not of this world.

[BP · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full disclosure: I am a member of the body of Christ at which Conrad is a leader. While I have my issues with Conrad’s leadership in a variety of contexts, I thought this book was extremely well written and a biblical approach to the question a lot of people struggle with: who am I? I definitely recommend this book.

[Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful collection of life-transforming identity truths found in God’s Word. It’s very biblically-based and full of interesting analogies and stories that help make abstract concepts concrete and understandable. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the way God views those who agree to a relationship with him.

[Alexander Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conrad Hilario set out on the journey of giving you biblical insight into your new identity in Christ. He does an excellent job relating his ideas to Scripture, and he helps teach how to see yourself the way God sees you. Following these truths leave a lasting impact on your life.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Identity is a book about learning and resting in who we are as believers and seeing ourselves as God sees us.
The book is rooted in Scriptural teachings to transform your self-view, inspire your worship, and empower your service to God.

[Gabby Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! A great look at the scripture on what God has to say about who we are. Hilario gives great analogies and examples to help appropriate these truths to everyday life.