Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
It’s been a difficult month for Dee and I – a couple weeks ago we found out that one of Dee’s family members is fighting a serious bout with cancer, and just moments ago I received a call stating that my Dad was being rushed to the hospital. The news has quickly put things back into perspective, and again makes me realize how nothing under heaven is as precious to me as my family and friends…nothing.
Over the years, I’ve prayed that the eternal future of each and every one of my loved ones has been secured through the saving power of Jesus Christ, and at times like these, I’ll pray diligently all the more. I pray that each of you would ask yourselves the following question: “If I died tomorrow, where would I be?” If heaven is your answer, I pray that you would ask yourselves the following: “Why do I believe I am going to heaven?” If your answer is anything other than Jesus, I pray that you would re-examine your heart and consider the following warning from Jesus:
Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles? Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ (Matthew 7:21-23)
It’s a sobering warning, but through the Lord’s mercy, we can have the blessed assurance of an eternal future with Him by humbling ourselves and turning our lives over to Jesus. If that is your heart’s desire, I ask you to pray the following and mean it with all of your heart:
“Dear Jesus, thank you for dying on the cross for me. I confess that I am a sinner, and in need of your salvation. I want to turn from my self-directed life, and place my trust firmly in you. Fill me with your holy spirit, and come into my life as Lord and Savior. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen!”
It’s amazing to think that a simple prayer can unlock the kingdom of heaven, but our part is really that simple; Jesus already did the hard part for us on the cross.