God’s children are not immune to feelings of uncertainty and doubt. Though convinced we are saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8), some still struggle with questions about whether or not they are in a saved condition. They wonder if they have done enough to inherit everlasting life. But, we can never do enough to merit forgiveness for a single sin. Salvation is not earned. It is a free gift of God (Rm. 6:23). It is, however, conditioned upon faith (Eph. 2:8). By means of biblical faith, we stand in the grace of God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Good works are expressions of our faith. In these we must labor continually (1 Cor. 15:58). Faith without works cannot save for it is little more than lifeless ritual (Jas. 2:24, 26). But, when faith works through love, what we do in service to the Lord becomes evidence that we are walking in the light and standing in the grace of God (Gal. 5:6; 1 Jn. 1:7; Rm. 5:2).

The most common cause of uncertainty in the heart of a Christian is unrepentant sin. As we walk in the light, we have the continual blessing of forgiveness through the blood of Jesus (1 Jn. 1:7). As we become aware of our sins, we are promised forgiveness and cleansing if we confess our sins to the Father (vs. 9). Included in confession is the concept of repentance. Sin does not take care of itself. Repentance is required (Lk. 13:3, 5). Repentance has been described as “a change of mind resulting in a change of life.” Some sins of which we repent are seldom repeated. Other sins, against which we struggle, are stubborn and persistent. These are the sins that give us pause, causing us to experience shadows of doubt. Time and time again, we must repent, even as we struggle mightily against temptation and sin. This does not mean that we have exhausted the grace of God. We must continue the fight and lean upon God’s resources for strength and victory (Eph. 6:10-13). However, in our desire for assurance and confidence before God, we cannot take a less than serious view of sin or its consequences. Purposeful sin does not magnify the grace of God (Rm. 6:1). Sin separates us from God and brings about spiritual death (Is. 59:1-2; Rm. 6:23; Jas. 1:13-15). Christian assurance is the result of dealing with sin in God’s way without abusing the grace of God or nullifying the gift of His Son. More about this next week.

–Glen Elliott–