When I was growing up, I wanted to be a teacher! One of my favorite times of the year was the last day of school when we got to bring home all of the left over school supplies from our desk; pencils, crayons, scissors and if I was lucky left over worksheets and assignments that we never got to that year. My sister and I would rush home, lay it all out and play "school". I grew up with a love of paper products and I couldn't think of a better career than that of a teacher. Fast forward 10 years I went away to college to do just that. Life happened, my interests changed and I ended up getting a degree is Psychology with plans of continuing on to be a marriage and family therapist. I've spent a lifetime trying to answer the questions "Who am I?" I've made plans, picked out dream homes and planned out exactly what I wanted my life to look like. It's funny, none of those things have come to pass. As a military wife my "dream home" is one that is affordable, comfortable and close to my husband's job. My plans of a career and education have been put on the back burner by deployments, moves, and family obligations. It's funny though, God has a way of turning a life that may look like a disappointment on the surface to the most incredible and fulfilling journey. We can spend a life time asking the question "Who am I?" but the most powerful answer is right in front of our nose. You are the child of the One True King, the Creator of the world, the Great I AM! You may not be who you think you SHOULD be but when you find out who you are in Christ, you will be more fulfilled and more capable to be the best you possible!

We were not created to live a life of defeat! So many of us battle with feelings of insecurity, self doubt and even depression. We spend a lifetime questioning ourselves and wondering why we can never just "figure it out". Did you know that this is not the plan for us?!  1 Peter 2:9 says "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior we become His, His "own special people". You are royalty my dear friend, apart of a royal priesthood. Are you living life like you are? There is no room for negative self talk, feelings of inferiority or defeat. Romans 8:31 says "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" There is NOTHING you can't do with God by your side. When you have the King of Kings on your side you are free to throw out all that "yuck" and start living a life full of hope, promise and success!

Today my answer to the question "Who am I?" is a lot different. I am no longer defined by my career choice, the role I play within my family or what others around me say I am. Today my answer is defined by something far greater; Who God says I am! I am a child of God. I am untouchable! It doesn't mean that everything is perfect, but it does mean that no matter what, God is by my side. You have this same opportunity. Don't let defeat rule you. Set your eyes on God and who he says you are and live life like nothing is impossible! Dream big and take chances!