David G. Benner

in losing our self that we truly find it (Matthew 10:39).

in losing our self that we truly find it (Matthew 10:39).

self-discovery, identity and authenticity

each has an important role to play in the transformational journey of Christian spirituality.

Christian spirituality has a great deal to do with the self, not just with God.

The goal of the spiritual journey is the transformation of self.

Both are necessary if we are to discover our true identity as those who are “in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17), because the self is where we meet God. Both are also necessary if we are to live out the uniqueness of our vocation.

identity is a challenge only for humans. A tulip knows exactly what it is. It is never tempted by false ways of being. Nor does it face complicated decisions in the process of becoming. So it is with dogs, rocks, trees, stars, amoebas, electrons and all other things.

All give glory to God by being exactly what they are.

For in being what God means them to be, they are obeying him.