saltandlight

A conversation with my son this morning reminded me of a verse in the Bible.  I knew part of the verse but I couldn’t quote it word for word so I looked it up.

Matthew was discussing people “in the world” that are also Christians.  But the songs they sing or the way the act tells a different story.  So, I said “You know the Bible says that not everyone that says Lord, Lord will enter the gates of Heaven”.  I sort of confused him with this, so then I had to explain and look up the verse…

Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

These are some powerful words spoken by Jesus himself.  The reason this verse came to mind this morning was because a friend of mine had just mentioned the same verse a few days ago in conversation.

There are many that call themselves Christians, but aren’t really.  We can know those people by their actions. One verse up, Matthew 7:20 says Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  We aren’t to judge them, but we aren’t to get down on their level either.

Another verse I’d like to share is James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.  We are only hurting ourselves if we hear the Word, but we don’t put it into action. 

We must all check our own hearts.  When we pray, ask God to show us our own faults and what we can do to improve.  The more we pray and study, the more God will convict our hearts (in order to guide us).

But, this can only happen if we are truly saved.  We cannot expect God to guide us if we have never truly accepted him as our Lord and Savior.

In order to be sure of our salvation there are a few things we can ask ourselves to “check our hearts”:

Can you recall a time in your life that you accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, (this would have been a life-changing event)?

Do you find yourself wanting to follow God’s word?

Do you have a genuine love for others?

Do you feel conviction of wrong doing?

If you say No to any of the above questions, you need to thoroughly check your heart and pray about whether or not you are truly saved.  Talk to a Pastor or other Christian leader.  There are many that have come to Christ late in life after thinking that they were saved.

Christians are not perfect.  But, when we make mistakes we should at least feel convicted about it.  We can know that we have a Father that is perfect and wants the best for us.  All we have to do is put our faith and trust in Him.  Walk with Him daily.  I promise you that it is definitely worth the effort!