ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE?

 ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE?

 One of the more challenging aspects of faith is maintaining consistency in its application.  Clearly, our faith is maximized while we are in the presence of the written and spoken Word.  This ‘faith-grasp’ is easily attainable when we are surrounded by strong and steadfast believers.  But what are the potential pitfalls for faith whenever we find ourselves alone confronting problematic situations that challenge the veracity of God’s promises?

 Friends, always remember that the human mind is the primary arena of spiritual warfare.  Since the Bible identifies Satan as “the accuser” of redeemed disciples of Christ, we must recognize his chief strategy, i.e. to sow seeds of doubt in the covenant relationships of those who would otherwise trust in the Lord. (Revelation 12:10) “The thief,” as Jesus aptly described him, hopes to create waves of uncertainty in our minds so we will question the security of our salvation, which is achieved solely (and certainly) “by grace through faith” in the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 10:10  and Ephesians 2:8)

 Allow me to illustrate these truths.  During my air travels, I have noted a clear contrast between those passengers who hold confirmed tickets and those who fly standby.  Confirmed passengers are much more relaxed.  They chat with others, read magazines or books, surf the Internet, talk on their cell phones, enjoy a quick snack, or even grab a few moments of slumber.  Unconfirmed passengers park themselves near the counter or nervously pace back and forth, appearing highly concerned whether they will make the flight, or not.  This confidence differential is quite easy to spot in airports.

 Similarly, as we Christians navigate our ‘salvation flight,’ some apparently embrace the scripture that says, “cast not away your confidence.” (Hebrews 10:35)  These persons absolutely trust in the fact that the finished work of salvation was accomplished at Calvary, and the Holy Spirit will attend to all crucial matters between time and eternity.  We do not take salvation for granted; but we fully trust in our God.  On the other hand, some seem to ride a veritable roller-coaster-of-faith, up one moment and down the next, trusting during this situation and doubting in the next.  One might characterize such individuals as “double-minded,” those who according to the Apostle James should not expect to “receive anything of the Lord.” (James 1:7-8)  It’s all about having and maintaining a confident faith.

 I recently read an intriguing article regarding salvation and personal assurance.  It describes “three groups of people: (1) those who are secure but not sure; (2) those who are sure but not secure; and (3) those who are secure and sure.  Category 1 consists of conscientious believers in Christ who are saved but lack assurance.  Category 2 is the group of professing Christians who say ‘Even though I'm living in sin, I’ll make it.  After all, once saved, always saved!’  Category 3 are truly born-again believers who consistently enjoy a warm, trusting and reliable relationship with Christ, based on the finished work of Christ on the cross.”

 Yes, we must prayerfully and carefully attend to our souls’ salvation.  That is a must. (Proverbs 4:23 and II Corinthians 13:5)  Yes, soul nurture is mission critical.

 However, throughout our life-journeys, we will always embrace this singular and sure testimony: I TRUST GOD.  For we have a phenomenal foundation of faith, a reliable reason to stand (peacefully) on His Word.  This spiritual confidence is rooted in Christ’s declaration to His disciples: “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19)  Amen!

 So here’s your spiritual agenda for today: Relax. Rest. Trust. Believe.  Why?  Because God’s got you!  (Proverbs 3:5-6) 

 Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!