Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you - unless, of course, you fail the test? (1 Corinthians 13:5).
One of the most asked questions on the Basic Gospel radio broadcast is this: "How can I know I'm saved?" Let's face it. We don't always act perfect, and our thoughts aren't always pure and noble. Take a look at all the things you've thought, said, and done just today. That will give you plenty of reasons to doubt your salvation. So what do you do with those doubts? Just as Paul challenged the Corinthians, you "examine yourself".
If Jesus Christ is in you, you've passed the test. His Spirit is testifying with your spirit right now that you are a child of God. That testimony is in your heart. If you feel like you failed the test, that's okay. God is using your doubts and fears and those nagging questions to draw you to himself.
Several years ago, I taught a conference in Colorado. One day for lunch, I joined a couple attending from Dallas. After I sat down, I noticed that Bonnie had a huge smile on her face. I said to her, "You sure look happy today." She was.
She proceeded to tell me her story. "Bob, today I got it. For the first time, the gospel made sense to me, and I know I'm saved." That night in her room, she penned a letter. Several weeks later she gave me a copy.
June 6, 2010 is the first day of my new life...I think I had received Jesus as my Savior, but I was not 100 percent sure. Today, now, I know I have. I am accepted...I am a forgiven child of God...I am righteous before the one great God. He is my Father. Jesus Christ is my Savior and friend for eternity.
With Christ living in you, you can walk in assurance.
As I tell people, drive the stake. Let today, this very moment, be the day of salvation for you. God is showing up right now in your situation to make you alive together with Christ. I encourage you to receive him by faith. Assurance can be yours!
In Him,
Bob Christopher