By JakkiJustSaying
Inherited Identity: How social, religious, and political traditions shape our identities—often without consent.
Scripture: “Beware lest any man spoil you throĺllugh philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men…” — Colossians 2:8 (KJV)
From the moment we are born, culture starts writing on our hearts.
We’re given language, customs, clothing styles, and views on life—before we ever choose them for ourselves. Our communities, churches, schools, and even politics hand us a blueprint and say, ‘This is who you are.’
But what if the blueprint was flawed?
What if our religious routines lack relationship?
What if our patriotic pride blinds us to injustice?
What if we adopted racism, classism, or silence—not by decision, but by inheritance?
Colossians 2:8 warns us about being spoiled—contaminated—by the philosophies and traditions of man. We often mistake tradition for truth. But truth has to be tested by the Spirit of God, not inherited blindly from culture.
To follow God authentically means we must be willing to unlearn. We must be brave enough to ask: ‘Is this belief rooted in Scripture or just in society’s design for me?’
How to Untangle Identity from Culture:
– Examine which parts of your identity you chose versus what was chosen for you.
– Measure beliefs by God’s Word, not by popular opinion.
– Walk in spiritual discernment, not social default.
Reflection Question:
Am I living out of tradition, or out of truth?