There is a significant difference between living with God and living without Him. While everyone faces battles, as Christians, we form a partnership with the Holy Spirit to overcome challenges, live victoriously, and please our Heavenly Father by embracing the abundant life described in John 10:10 (KJV): "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
Why is salvation freely and simply given?
Romans 10:9-10 (NLT) explains: "If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved."
The next steps are to diligently study the Holy Scriptures and understand our rights as royal children of God. Unfortunately, many pastors and priests make excuses for why we aren’t healed, why we live in poverty, or why we fall victim to evildoers. The devil's primary tactic is to plant seeds of doubt in our minds. While most of us believe that God's power can heal, we may question if healing is for us. We might even ask, "Is God trying to teach me a lesson?" For example, when a child dies, some pastors comfort grieving families by saying, "God needed your child in Heaven." WRONG! The Bible says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6 NIV).
Instead, we should hold onto God’s promises. Hebrews 10:23 (NKJV) urges us: "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." Similarly, James 1:4-6 (NKJV) says: "But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind."
As Christians, we sometimes observe ungodly individuals living luxurious lives, looking down on those struggling financially. However, if we could "walk a day in their shoes," we would see their lack of true joy and peace. They are never satisfied with their wealth and power, constantly thirsting for more at any cost. True peace comes only from serving the Lord, forgiving others, and letting go of the revengeful obsession. This requires work! Forgiving those who have hurt or wronged us is a choice. We must allow the Holy Spirit to heal our emotions and bring comfort.
Non-Christians lack the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, who strengthens us and provides peace that surpasses understanding. Philippians 4:7 (NIV) reassures us: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
A Challenge to You Today
Lori and I challenge you to accept Jesus as your personal Savior. Believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. Ask Him to be your Lord, forgive all your sins, and openly declare that Jesus is your Lord and Savior. You will be eternally saved.
Next, study the Bible and pray regularly. Find a church that preaches the full rights we have as children of God. Avoid churches that make excuses for why we aren't healed, why we live in lack, or why we struggle without victory. Instead, partner with the Holy Spirit to walk in faith and triumph over life's challenges.
