By Tim Orr

In the vibrant neighborhoods of Dhaka, where every alleyway carries the scent of home-cooked biryani and the echoes of children playing in the streets, a young woman named Anika grew up surrounded by the rich traditions and deep cultural pride of her Bengali heritage. For Anika, being Bengali was more than just a label; it was a source of strength and belonging. But when she moved to the UK, she grappled with questions about her identity, especially as she deepened her relationship with Christ. Anika’s story is not unique. Many Bengali Christians in the UK face similar challenges, trying to reconcile their cultural roots with their newfound faith.

As Bengali Christians, our culture is a beautiful and integral part of our identity. It shapes our values, our customs, and our community. However, it’s important to remember that our primary identity should be found in Christ. This doesn’t mean we have to abandon our Bengali heritage, but rather that we should see ourselves first and foremost as children of God, defined by His love and grace.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This verse reminds us that when we choose to follow Jesus, we are given a new identity. This identity is not based on our nationality, culture, or achievements but on our relationship with Christ. We become part of a larger family, the body of Christ, which transcends all earthly boundaries.

Understanding this truth was liberating for Anika. She realized that her worth was not tied to how well she fit into her new surroundings in the UK or how connected she remained to her Bengali roots. Her true worth came from being a beloved child of God. This perspective allowed her to embrace her cultural heritage with joy while also holding it loosely, knowing that her ultimate allegiance was to Christ.

Living in the UK, you might often feel the tension between holding onto your Bengali identity and embracing your Christian faith. It’s a natural struggle, especially in a society that might not fully understand or appreciate your background. However, finding your primary identity in Christ means recognizing that your value and purpose are defined by Him alone. This identity in Christ is unshakeable and eternal, providing a firm foundation no matter your challenges.

One practical way to cultivate this Christ-centered identity is through daily reminders of who you are in God’s eyes. Just as Anika started each day by reading Scriptures that spoke of her identity in Christ, you, too, can start your day by affirming the truths of God’s Word. Verses like Galatians 3:28, which says, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus,” can help you remember that in God’s kingdom, all earthly distinctions fade away, and what matters most is your relationship with Him.

Another powerful way to ground yourself in your identity in Christ is through community. Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage you to grow in your faith and remind you of who you are in Christ. Join a church or small group where you can share your journey, learn from others, and find support. Just as Anika found solace and strength in a group of Bengali Christians, who met regularly to study the Bible and pray together, you, too, can find encouragement in a community that shares your values and understands your experiences.

Finding your primary identity in Christ also means letting go of the need to please others or conform to their expectations. It’s about embracing the freedom of knowing you are fully accepted and loved by God. This freedom allows you to live authentically, whether celebrating a traditional Bengali festival or participating in a church service. It frees you to express your unique blend of Bengali culture and Christian faith in a way that honors God and reflects His love for those around you.

As you navigate life in the UK, remember that your identity in Christ is your anchor. It is what gives you strength when you feel out of place, courage when you face opposition, and hope when you feel overwhelmed. It is what connects you to the global body of Christ, making you part of something much bigger than yourself.

Anika’s journey to finding her primary identity in Christ wasn’t easy, but it was deeply rewarding. She learned that while her Bengali heritage was a beautiful part of her story, her true identity was rooted in her relationship with Jesus. This realization allowed her to live with confidence and joy, knowing that God fully knew and loved her.

As a Bengali Christian in the UK, you, too, can find your true identity in Christ. Embrace your cultural heritage, but hold it in light of who you are in Him. Let His love define you, His Word guide you, and His Spirit empower you. In Christ, you are a new creation, a beloved child of God, and nothing can change that.

The ideas in this article are mine, but AI assisted in this article.

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