About my faith...

As we walk through this journey called life, we find ourselves faced many circumstances that, given the choice, we might not choose to experience. The loss of a loved one. The break-up of our marriage. The loss of our job. A life threatening disease. These are just a few of the issues that happen to many of us and our friends and neighbors every day. The pain, confusion and even anger that manifests from such conditions can drive us to seek refuge. Refuge to some is alcohol, sex, reclusive behavior or even suicide. These reactions are understandable but, not necessary. I have come to know that there is a better way to resolve my troubles. Faith. That's right. Faith.

My mom used to tell me "you will never know peace until you give all you have to the Lord". I had a huge road block. PRIDE. Until I learned to humble myself and give my heart to the Lord, I had no peace.

Please listen to me! Real peace can be found. By putting your faith in the true and living God, you can have peace. This is not a difficult thing to do. The hardest part is realizing we are all sinners.

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23)

What is the result of sin? In Romans 6:23 we read "The wages of sin is death..." Every one of us has missed God's mark. Every one of us falls short of being perfect. We are getting only what we deserve, and we are bringing judgment upon ourselves. One thing we need to remember is that God never sends anyone to hell. We send ourselves there by rejecting His truth.

We all need the saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ's death and resurrection was for us, to pay for our sins.

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8)

Once we realize we are sinners, what do we do about it? We come to know God by receiving Christ's payment on the cross for our sins. This is a gift to us from God.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Now let's examine the absolute perfect (AGAPE) love behind this gift of salvation. We have all seen the signs held up by the guys at football games. John 3:16 But, what is John 3:16? It is the most precious gift ever given.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16)

Now that we have recognized we are a sinner and we can be forgiven by the grace of God, what do we do next? How can we receive this gift? This is the easiest part.

The Bible says in Romans 10:9, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."

His invitation is clear. We must come to Him and confess our faith. All that remains is a response. In Romans 6:23 we read "...the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

What do we have to do to receive that gift? Take it! Revelation 3:20 states "Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with me."

Jesus stands at the door of your heart and knocks, seeking entrance into your life. I urge you, give yourself over to Him and I guarantee He will give you peace.

If you have read this message and are ready to make a commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, simply pray a prayer of faith. Mean it from your heart. Pray this prayer:

Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and I need you. I believe you died for me and rose again. Please come into my life and forgive me of my sins. Be my God. Be my Lord. Be my friend. Help me to walk with you all of my days. I commit my life into Your hands.
Amen.

The words of this prayer are not magic. They are powerful if you meant what you prayed. Remember, it is the attitude of your heart that is important. Only you and God know what you really think.

One last thought. If you already know Christ, but you have not made Him your first priority in life, I encourage you to take a minute to pray right now and rededicate your life to Him. You will never regret it!

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments you may have.

God Bless You,

Eric Crilly
Design Guy