Our Salvation: A Reason for Optimism

"God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung, and bled, and died, it was God saying to the world, "I love you."   - Billy Graham

Given the state of affairs in our world today, it's difficult to feel positive, upbeat, or optimistic. And no wonder. It seems that strife, unrest, and a general feeling of confusion has taken a toe-hold on society. Recent incidents of savage violence only add to the toxic mix.

Although it seems harder and harder to find to find occasions for exultation, there are still some things in which we can find joy and thankfulness. One of these is the joy of our salvation. Even with all of the negativity that abounds today there still is reason for jubilation.

We can follow the example of the psalmist, in Psalm 51:12, who declares: "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation." He is telling us here that even when it appears as if the walls are closing in there is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness if we just know where to look.

I mentioned the joy of our salvation above because it is easy for us to forget how great this gift truly is; how we tend to take it for granted because it did not cost us anything. Yet, we are greatly blessed because of it. Let's look at a few of its benefits which we enjoy.

First, the pardon of our sins. Without this, we would truly be floating down the proverbial "creek without a paddle" as far as our relationship with God goes. Our sins have been forgiven thanks to Jesus' sacrifice on our behalf.

This forgiveness has also given us freedom from the bondage of sin, from guilt, and fear of judgment. But, the real joy comes when we lay our resentment, guilt, neglect of God's Word, etc., at His feet and pray, "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation" He will (1 Peter 1:8).

As Christians, our joy depends on a total commitment to God. That is, He comes first and foremost in our lives. Our complete surrender to Him releases us from worry. We let God handle it, and let Him handle us. The responsibility of our lives belongs to Him.

Through our total commitment the Holy Spirit fills us to the brim with God's love. As a result, by loving God and others, we are restored by the joy of salvation (Acts 15:9). Which brings us to the peace of soul.

No matter how long or hard we may work, play, or love, it never seems to really bring us true joy. That elusive joy and peace we seek cannot be attained through material gains, power, or pleasure. We, Christians, can rejoice because in Christ we have the only peace of mind and soul that matters (Philippians 4:7).

Yes, there is much going on in our world to create uncertainty. But, no matter how dark the world may seem, there is always a light that shines brightly in it. That light is Jesus Christ and the joy of our salvation.

Scripture: Titus 3:5; Ephesians 2:8-9; Acts 4:12; Psalm 3:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 

Prayer: Dear God, by grace I have been saved through faith; not by my works, but by Your gift, amen.

May God bless you,

Cathryn