“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
 
Do we trust that what Christ did on the cross was enough to make us sons and daughters of God? Or are we still trying to earn it through our own doing?  

According to a 2023 study done by the Pew Research Center, over 63% of United States citizens self-identify as Christians. Although this number is drastically lower than previously recorded, this statistic tells us that the majority of our communities are self-proclaimed Christ-followers. 

I may be a cynic, but that statistic gives me pause.

Even though I live firmly in the “Bible Belt” of America, the majority of individuals I interact with are living exhausted and angry. How would our world be different if 63% of our community was living in the freedom, trust and humility that comes with knowing your salvation is from Christ alone, rather than striving like the world does? 

When our identity is consumed by salvation in Christ, our lives are marked with confidence, peace and joy. When we compartmentalize our faith, we continue to strive for our identity, and our lives are defined by burn-out, worry and bitterness.

I can admit that even as I fight for my time and try to discipline myself to abide more in Christ, I can become weary and start to chase identity in earthly things. It takes a conscious effort to course-correct back to Christ in a world that thinks busyness and overwhelm make you important. 
 
Many of us know the song “In Christ Alone,” written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townsend. One of the verses in the song has always particularly moved me. 
 
“In Christ alone, my hope is found
. He is my light, my strength, my song
. This Cornerstone, this solid ground. 
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
. What heights of love, what depths of peace
. When fears are stilled, when strivings cease. 
My Comforter, my All in All 
– Here in the love of Christ I stand.” 
 
This Easter, I am committing to asking God each morning for faith and trust that his work on the cross is enough. I am committing to reflecting on the power of Christ and the identity I have through him alone, and I'm asking him to give me strength to live in a way that shows the world that Jesus has something wonderful to offer those who are tired of striving.

Will you join me? 

Written by Audra Beaty, social media strategist for Buckner International.