Sometimes people talk about those who have recently come to faith in Jesus Christ as one who just "got religion." Friends, I hope you NEVER "get religion" - I hope you truly come to faith in Jesus Christ.
You see, faith is (even according to the Bible) being certain of what is not yet seen, but is expected. For the Christian, that should be the eternal forgiveness of sins; it should be heaven; it should be the real, indwelling person of the Holy Spirit; it means being born again. I don't have eyes that can see heaven. Neither do you. But by faith, I can be certain that heaven is my destiny. There is no "hope so" when I live by faith. It is a "know so." I am sure of it.
But I don't simply base my confidence (faith) simply in something that is only a hope. I base my confidence in Jesus Christ. He has demonstrated that He is trustworthy. He has demonstrated that He is able to do all He promised. He has shown that He is willing and committed to accomplishing that in us. He proved that by His death, burial, and resurrection. I trust His death to cleanse me of my sins and His life to lead me in my new one. I am certain of it and so willing to go wherever He leads; I am willing to do whatever He tells me.
Are you one who "has religion" or truly has faith?
Yes, true faith is a gift from God that is evidenced and "lived out" in the life of a true Believer. Great thoughts to meditate on.
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