DID YOU KNOW…There’s a thief going around stealing people’s identities?
Be Alert, this thief may not look like you think, he may appear as a friend. He might be in your close circle.

Years ago, my brother's identity was stolen. But, guess what? It was a while before he even knew it had been stolen. He had this friend who would ride from place to place with him.

They were friends. So, he got comfortable. No need to hide important documents such as his driver's license, his paycheck stubs, etc. All his personal information was lying around for the thief to steal. But, he had no idea he was entertaining a thief until something strange started to happen.

My brother noticed it had been weeks and he hadn’t received any mail. He knew this was unusual. He thought he should at least be receiving some junk mail. After speaking with his mail carrier, he discovered that all his mail had been forwarded to a P.O. Box. He found out his friend had rerouted his mail in order to keep him from knowing he had stolen his identity, opened credit card accounts and purchased high ticket items, all in my brothers name. Wow!

He felt betrayed, vulnerable and more aware of everyone in his circle who he'd trusted without doubt. This experience changed him overnight.

I mention this story to illustrate the fact that sometimes it may take a while for us to notice but a part of you may be compromised. Your identity is at stake and it can be confusing to figure it all out.

Has your identity been stolen? Are you confused about who your are? This thief I’m referring to will use people close to you. It could be a friend, a family member, a boss or a teacher. He disguises himself very well. They make you feel insecure, unworthy, inadequate, not good enough, not smart enough and not pretty enough.
He’s after your confidence! This thief uses betrayal, shame, doubt and insecurity to steal your identity.

I know because I’ve been there. I lost myself and my identity. After going through a terrible marriage and subsequent divorce, I was confused. I didn't know what to think of my identity after years of being told what I should be. He would suggest that I dress like other women or wear my hair like other women...I was so confused until I rediscovered my worth and reclaimed my identity.

How do You Protect Your Identity?

•   Know Whose You Are: You are God’s Child! Even after divorce, loss of a loved one, getting fired from a job, or a break up with your boo, you’re still a child of God.
•   Know Who You Are: You are fearfully and wonderfully made; a royal priesthood.
•   Be Alert of Your Surroundings: Who is speaking into your life?
•   When You Hear a Lie, in Return Speak the Truth:  Example-Let the weak say, “I AM STRONG.”

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” ~ Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Declaration: “I am not what or who people say I am. I am who God says I am!”