Don’t Just Talk About God

Did you know that believing in Jesus Christ doesnt make someone a Christian? We have to act on this belief by committing our lives to Him. Anyone who is willing to surrender everything to God can become a Christian. It doesnt matter how bad weve been. Thats why Jesus Christ died – so even our worst sins could be forgiven.

The only thing that will keep us from being forgiven is claiming we dont need Gods forgiveness. In 1 John 1:8-9 we read: “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

The implications of becoming a Christian are enormous. Its not like joining a club or choosing a university. A Christian has become a new person. In the New Testament we read: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” [2 Corinthians 5:17]. Its true!

If you havent already done so, I urge you to confess your sins and ask Jesus Christ to be your Savior. Make today the day you become part of Gods family forever.

Myths De-bunked

Today many people believe one or more myths about what makes someone a real Christian.

Myth #1 says you can be a Christian from birth. But the truth is: you cant inherit Christianity like a genetic trait.

Myth #2 says going to church makes you a Christian. But the truth is: you can go to church every week for your entire life without ever really knowing God.

Myth #3 says believing in God is enough. But the followers of most world religions believe in God. That doesnt make them Christians, per se.

Myth #4 says praying to God makes you a Christian. But the adherents to countless religions all over the world pray. Christians certainly dont have a monopoly on prayer.

Myth #5 says doing good things is enough. Or at least, not doing bad things. But many atheists live decent lives and even do laudable things for humanity. They would be the first to say theyre not Christians. Good works are not good enough.

I urge you to take an honest look – beyond the myths -about what the Bible says makes someone a real Christian.

Knows God

Many people call themselves “Christians,” but their lives send conflicting messages. How can you know if youre a real Christian?

To begin with, a real Christian knows God. But knowing God is different from knowing about Him. Imagine someone trying to choose a spouse just by reading about him or her. Its the same with God.

God created us for relationship with Him. But theres a chasm between us. Its a chasm thats existed since Adam and Eve first chose to disobey God. The Bible says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). It also says “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Thats the bad news.

The Good News is that God has an answer! The Bible teaches that Gods Son, Jesus Christ, came and lived a perfect life on earth – and took the punishment for our sins on Himself. He died on the cross for our sins and then came back to life three days later.

I urge you to embrace this life-changing Good News today. Its the best decision youll ever make!

New Believers

I love the story of the Samaritan woman. Jesus came to her, and struck up a conversation. He shared with her that He alone offered living water and eternal life. She believed in Him, and immediately stopped what she was doing and went back to her town to tell everyone.

The book of John says, “many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the womans testimony.” She didnt have all the answers, but she had a real encounter with the Living God and a story to tell.

Even if youre newly saved, God wants to use you now! Invite your friends to join you in Heaven for eternity. You dont need to wait. It doesnt matter if youve been a Christian since you were 4. It doesnt matter if you went to Sunday School or not. Background, experience, and eloquence are irrelevant – when God has done a mighty work in someones life He will speak through that person!

Its never too early, but eventually it will be too late. So, tell someone about Jesus Christ today

A Priceless Gift

Several years ago a terrifying tragedy took the lives of a missionarys wife and their seven-month old daughter. Jim, the missionary, barely survived the accident. Only he, his son, and the airplane pilot walked away from the crash. At the funeral, Jim said, “Obviously it hurts, but God works mysteriously.” He said that Gods comfort was releasing him from constant sadness.

Make no mistake. The peace of God does not shield any of us from terror, pain, or horrifying circumstances. Those who know and love Jesus Christ – even vibrant missionaries – can be rocked by tragedy and hardship. But you can count on Gods peace. It will always be much bigger than any circumstance you will ever face.

Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Gods peace will grant you an inexplicable calmness of spirit. It will enable you to handle whatever comes your way, even tragedy. What a gift! And its a gift to be given away. Wont you reach your world today by telling someone that Jesus Christ is the reason for your peace?