Happy Thursday! I am blessed to be a part of a group of bloggers who feel led to share a bit of encouragement each week from the Bible. We recognize our daily need for Christ and we aim to share that with our readers. Plus, when Thursday comes around, we can all use a little encouragement right? I hope that this post blesses you and that you find comfort, strength, and peace in the Lord today ❤
One of the books I’m currently reading is called Assurance by Greg Gilbert. While I’m not that far into it yet, I have to say that it I’ve already hit a few “Amen!” moments. How can someone who has proclaimed Christ, been going to church for years, attending Bible studies, doing devotions, and volunteering in ministry, still feel a sense of unrest towards their eternal salvation?
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.
1 John 5:13 (ESV)
Last year in youth group the pastor did a really powerful series on 1 John. I can’t even begin to tell you how amazed I was at the rapid growth I saw in many of the kids through that study. They said it made the gospels make sense to them and ignited a passion for their faith. Happy tears, y’all!
Yes, in Phil 2:12 we are told to “continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,” but as we saw in 1 John, God also wants us to be assured in our salvation!
1 Truly my soul finds rest in God;
my salvation comes from him.
2 Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.Psalm 62:1-2 (NIV)
This is not to say that we are not to be examining our faith in any way. If we are in the Word and spending time with the Lord regularly, He will show continue to shows us areas that we need to grow in and change our ways.
23 Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.Psalm 139:23
There is nothing in this life that can compare to knowing Jesus. If you are struggling with a feeling of unease or anxiety towards your salvation, I would strongly recommend reading 1 John. There is nothing wrong with seeking out a pastor or other person at church for help as well. Part of Christian fellowship is being able to encourage each other in the Lord and offer godly counsel! <3
I hope this post blessed you today. I’m ending with the worship song “Blessed Assurance.” I hope you take a moment to listen before heading off for the rest of your day. Until next week!
Now, it’s your turn!
What Biblical verse is encouraging you today?
And, check out more Thursday Encouragement from my fellow blogger friends:
Nicole @ Christian Fiction Girl
Trisha @ Joy of Reading
Jacquelyn @ A Heavenly Home
Jessica @ A Baker’s Perspective
Gina @ Stories By Gina
Rebecca @Rev. Rebecca Writes
If you would like to join us: please contact Trisha or Nicole
Amen! There is nothing in this world that’s better than knowing Jesus. The only thing that calms me down anymore and gives me peace is being in His Word!
Daily we die to self, and daily we choose to put God first. Thank you for sharing these verses!