"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." - John 6:47

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Tuesday, December 13, 2016

The Decision of A Lifetime

"The Christian life is not adding Jesus to one's own way of life but renouncing that personal way of life for His and being willing to pay whatever cost that may require."  - John MacArthur

On any given day of the year, people around the world make the decision to come to Jesus Christ.  And though they may have many different reasons for doing so, it is the love for who Christ is, and what he did for us that is the common thread which binds us together.

I've found that almost everyone whom I have ever asked about their journey as a Christian, remembers the year, day, and sometimes even the time of their commitment. You have to admit, accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is a decision that is not to be made lightly. It is a choice that will produce eternal consequences.

There are numerous resources out there for both, those who are considering accepting Christ, and the newly converted Christian. Instead of adding to that list, I'd like to simply offer a few suggestions to an often asked question, "I've accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, what now?"

Deciding to come Christ is a great responsibility. Here are some basic points to help you along in your relationship with Our Lord. The biggest piece of advice I can offer is to live your life worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in every way (Ephesians 4:1). I don't have to tell you how difficult this can be, but definitely worth the effort.

In spite of what we see going on in the world at large, we must also conduct ourselves in a manner that is worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27). It pains me to see how ugly we can treat one another, but it doesn't surprise me. Remember, we only walk on this earth for a short time, then the bill comes due, as they say.

Regarding your faith, stand firm, be courageous and strong, do everything in love, be alert at all times (1 Corinthians 16:13); and don't yourself to be burdened by sin (Galatians 5:1). Living a true Christian life is not a cakewalk. But then gaining something of real value rarely is. There is going to be a cost involved with it.

Christ truly loved us, which is why he died for us, And though he isn't here in person, he now lives in each of us; which is so much better. This means that the life we live is by faith in Him. And, in order to live by faith, it will require the sacrifice (death) of the life you live now. This is where many hesitate and walk away (Matthew 19:21-22).

Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross was the price he paid for our freedom from sin (Galatians 2:4). We must never forget this. Don't waste it by indulging in fleshly and earthly pleasures. Take advantage of it instead, to humbly serve each other in love (Galatians 5:13).

Don't use your freedom from sin as a license to go wild. Though we are no longer slaves to sin, we must live as God's slaves. In other words, to do His will (1 Peter 2:16). Finally, take care to always put forth a good example, especially to those weaker in faith than yourself (1 Corinthians 8:9).

When a person makes the life-changing decision to come to Christ, he will find himself in excellent company. Innumerable others have followed this well-worn path. There definitely will be highs, lows, bumps, and bruises along the way. But, we must "press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14).

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:8; John 8:32; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 3:13; Galatians 2:20

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me persevere in my walk with You; when I stumble and fall, Your mighty hand lifts me up; when I grow weak and afraid, You strengthen and comfort me. Because of Your mercy and grace, I have been given a second lease on life, and I am eternally grateful to You for that. Amen

May God bless you always!

Brandi

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