THIS MIGHT BE a question you've recently asked yourself concerning your spiritual nature. Do I know what will happen to me when I die? Will I go to heaven? These are just a few of the questions people ask themselves at some point in their life regardless of their religious beliefs and background. Maybe you've settled this issue already in your heart, but maybe you haven't and you're wondering if you're right with God. This is the most important decision you'll ever make. Are you sure you're going to heaven?
Allow me to first tell you that the Bible says that we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom 3:23). This means that though we were created in God's image (Gen 1:27), we were all born into sin and are automatically separated from God; we've fallen short! Now, if you believe you are without sin, take this simple test to see if you measure up: 1) Have you ever told a lie, white lie or a fib? 2) Have you ever taken something that doesn't belong to you, regardless of its value? 3) Have you ever used God's name improperly? Each question is based on the Ten Commandments. If you have answered yes to any of these questions, by your own admission you are a lying, thieving, blasphemer at heart; you're guilty of sin and will have to face God on Judgment Day.
Did you know 10 of 10 people die? The Bible says it has been appointed for everyone to die once but after this comes judgment (Heb 9:27). This judgment is the second death, it is the result of sin. The Bible says the wages of sin is death (Rom 6:23) and that all liars and thieves will be thrown into the lake of fire (Rev 21:27). So you've got a big problem if you failed the test above, right? What can you do on the day of judgment? You could try and plead for your life, but a righteous judge would never allow a convicted felon to bypass his punishment; and so neither will God allow the unrighteous to bypass what he deserves!
Don't stop reading now, there's great news ahead! The second part of what the Bible says, "The wages of sin is death," goes on to say, "but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ!" What this means is that because God loved us so much He sent us a gift (His only Son, Jesus) so that we may have eternal life (John 3:16). This is even greater than selling my house to pay your fine so you wouldn't have to go to jail! When Jesus died on the cross He took the punishment for our sin, so that we wouldn't have to face a second death; Jesus paid our fine with his own blood!
But there's something you must do; to receive this free gift of salvation you are required to repent of your sins. This means to admit to God that you have sinned against His perfect law and turn away from the things you love, but God hates. Trust your life to Jesus; this means to let go and give Him control of your life; sacrifice your own desires to His will. Where to start? The Bible; begin by reading the Gospel of John (located in the New Testament), and as you do ask God to show His will for you and help you understand His word. Then find a local church to become a part of so that you can continue growing in grace and knowledge of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
If you have just now decided to place your trust in Jesus Christ, please contact us and share the experience with us. If you have any questions or want to address any spiritual needs please email us right away and we will respond within 24 hours.
"To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen." (2 Pet 3:18).
