Being with Jesus, transformed into his true identity, Zacchaeus did what his true identity knew to do. He returned what he had stolen and began to live generously. Zacchaeus had been hoarding money, living 180 degrees opposite of his true identity. When he met Jesus, he moved into his true identity and gave money away.

Jesus knew our tendency to turn things into a formula and make them a ritual. That’s what we do to avoid relationship.

Jesus says, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift” (Matt. 5:23–24 NIV).

God never comes to you in a formula, and he never will. You know why? He respects and loves you too much to talk to you that way. He’s creative in how he talks. He’s mysterious.

The gates of hell cannot stand against us moving in our true identity. But if we take one step outside of that identity, we’re done, we’re finished. It’s over.

When you live in your true identity, nothing can stop you from the life-fulfilling destiny God has for you to discover. Let’s take a look at how to get rid of that trash pile so that the rats will cease to exist.

God will never give you the power to do something you aren’t willing to do.

When you ask the questions Should I go? Will I win? and How should I go? your life with God will become generative and creative.

“Lord, which way are we going? Where are you on this path? Lord, how do we go? What do you want me to know? What do you want me to do?”