Wednesday Night Devotional: Assurance of Salvation
Introduction
Good evening, everyone. Tonight, we’re going to delve into a topic that is crucial for every believer: the assurance of salvation. Understanding and embracing this assurance not only brings peace to our hearts but also strengthens our walk with Christ. Assurance of salvation is the confidence we have in our eternal relationship with God, knowing that we are secure in His hands. Let’s explore why this assurance is important, what it is based on, the role of the Holy Spirit, and how it impacts our discipleship.
Why Assurance is Important
Firstly, let’s consider why assurance of salvation is important. Assurance brings peace and security. Knowing that our eternal destiny is secure in Christ allows us to live without fear. We don’t have to constantly worry about whether we’re “good enough” to make it to heaven. Jesus Himself said in John 10:28-29, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” This promise of eternal life and protection from Jesus gives us a profound sense of security.
Secondly, assurance serves as a motivation for holy living. When we are confident in our salvation, we are more inclined to live righteously and pursue godliness. We understand that our lives are a reflection of our relationship with Christ, and this encourages us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling.
Lastly, assurance provides strength in trials. Life is full of challenges and hardships. However, when we have the assurance of our salvation, we can face these trials with hope and perseverance. We know that no matter what happens in this life, our future with Christ is secure.
Scriptural Basis for Assurance
The assurance of our salvation is firmly rooted in Scripture. In 1 John 5:13, the apostle John writes, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” Here, John is affirming that believers can have certainty about their salvation. It’s not a vague hope but a confident assurance.
Romans 8:16 says, “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” This verse highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in assuring us of our relationship with God. The Spirit’s testimony within us is a powerful affirmation that we belong to God.
Additionally, Ephesians 1:13-14 explains, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.” The Holy Spirit is described as a seal and a deposit, guaranteeing our inheritance. This metaphor indicates the permanence and security of our salvation.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in assuring us of our salvation. Firstly, the Holy Spirit testifies to our spirit that we are children of God (Romans 8:16). This inner witness of the Spirit provides a deep, personal confirmation of our status as God’s children. It’s a divine affirmation that we belong to Him.
Secondly, the Holy Spirit seals our salvation. As we read in Ephesians 1:13-14, the Holy Spirit is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance. This means that the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives is a foretaste and assurance of the eternal life that awaits us. It’s like a down payment that ensures the full payment will come.
Lastly, the Holy Spirit guides and comforts us. In John 14:26, Jesus said, “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” The Holy Spirit’s guidance and comfort reinforce our confidence in God’s promises, helping us to navigate the complexities of life with assurance.
How Assurance Makes Us Better Disciples
Having the assurance of salvation profoundly impacts our discipleship. Firstly, it gives us boldness in witnessing. When we are confident in our own salvation, we are more willing to share the gospel with others. We know the joy and peace that come from being secure in Christ, and we want others to experience that as well.
Secondly, assurance helps us to remain steadfast in trials. Knowing that our eternal future is secure allows us to endure hardships with unwavering faith. We can face difficulties with the confidence that God is with us and that our ultimate destiny is with Him.
Thirdly, assurance motivates us to grow in Christlikeness. When we are confident in our relationship with God, we strive to become more like Jesus. We seek to grow in our faith, develop godly character, and live out the teachings of Christ.
Lastly, assurance fills us with joy and gratitude. Knowing that our salvation is secure fills us with a deep sense of joy and thankfulness. This joy overflows into our daily walk and service, making us more effective and enthusiastic disciples.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the assurance of salvation is a powerful truth that transforms our lives. It brings peace, security, and motivation for holy living. It is rooted in the promises of Scripture and affirmed by the Holy Spirit. And it empowers us to live boldly, endure trials, grow in Christlikeness, and overflow with joy and gratitude. Let us embrace this assurance and allow it to deepen our commitment to Christ and His kingdom. Amen.