God’s Word Says….

Acts 13:26–29 (The Message)

My Thoughts…..

I have heard a number of reports on survey results that indicate only a very small portion of church goers have personally accepted the love of Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross for their sins. In the church world we call it ‘saved’. This is frightening to imagine, because many pastors actually preach the need for salvation every week. Frightening, because it shows how good we are at pointing fingers to the attendee behind us, knowing within our hearts that we have been attending church for so long, there could be no way that the message of salvation could possibly be God speaking to our heart. Friends, I have heard this said in so many ways, but the best illustration is: I can park my lawn mower in my carport every night, but the next morning it still is a lawnmower and not a car. You can visit a church, like it and attend every week, but attendance nor participation while attending will save you. Salvation is not one of those things that saturates our body anytime we enter the church doors. God provided it as a gift to us, because of the sacrifice He made at Calvary when He allowed His precious Son, Jesus, to be crucified for our sin. Further, Jesus arose from the dead (as we celebrate this Easter time) and sits at the right hand of the Father (God) interceding (praying) for us.

Challenge……

When the message of salvation is taught or preached, it is important that you evaluate yourself as to whether there was ever a time in your life that you knowingly asked Jesus for forgiveness of your years of sin and acting ugly with others. You must then invite Jesus to take control of your life and guide you appropriately each day into a better way, following His written Word, the Bible. It is only then that you are saved Brother. It is only then that you qualify in not just ‘passing the buck’, but sincerely praying for the Brother or Sister behind, or beside you so that they too might be saved. As this passage indicates, salvation is for us – you and I, let’s get self straight first, then perhaps we can pray for a friend or neighbor to also receive Christ.

Prayer……

Lord Jesus, please forgive us for our pettiness and selfishness in believing that we can accomplish a right relationship with You on our own. Your Word is clear, and we are reminded so many times, especially during this Easter season, that there is only ONE WAY to salvation, and that is through personal acceptance of the gift You freely (but sacrificially) gave for us on Calvary. Thank You for that day back in 1976 when You got my attention and I personally made the decision to accept You as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for being by my side each and every day, for watching over me, for guiding me and protecting me. Lord, I have specific love ones who need You and need to make this decision. Please tender their hearts today. I also pray for those who attend church every week, but have not yet personally accepted You as Lord. Please tender their hearts this week, if it is not too late. Thank You Lord for loving us enough to save us!