I am not saved by believing— I simply realize I am saved by believing. And it is not repentance that saves me— repentance is only the sign that I realize what God has done through Christ Jesus. The danger here is putting the emphasis on the effect, instead of on the cause. Is it my obedience, consecration, and dedication that make me right with God? It is never that! I am made right with God because, prior to all of that, Christ died. When I turn to God and by belief accept what God reveals, the miraculous atonement by the Cross of Christ instantly places me into a right relationship with God. And as a result of the supernatural miracle of God’s grace I stand justified, not because I am sorry for my sin, or because I have repented, but because of what Jesus has done. The Spirit of God brings justification with a shattering, radiant light, and I know that I am saved, even though I don’t know how it was accomplished.

The salvation that comes from God is not based on human logic, but on the sacrificial death of Jesus. We can be born again solely because of the atonement of our Lord. Sinful men and women can be changed into new creations, not through their repentance or their belief, but through the wonderful work of God in Christ Jesus which preceded all of our experience (see 2 Corinthians 5:17-19). The unconquerable safety of justification and sanctification is God Himself. We do not have to accomplish these things ourselves— they have been accomplished through the atonement of the Cross of Christ. The supernatural becomes natural to us through the miracle of God, and there is the realization of what Jesus Christ has already done— “It is finished!” (John 19:30).

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October 28, 2010

My Journal Entry Today-JDV

Despite a multitude of difficult circumstances and trials over the past few years, I have never doubted my position with God. It is clear to me that staying intimate with you, God, provides assurance of my salvation, even though my circumstances may be difficult.

And God says…”When the Holy Spirit within you is in close communication with My Spirit, you have absolute assurance. You know your position based on the work of Jesus. When you doubt your position it is really your Spirit out of communion with My Spirit…….you try to “feel” My presence with your own heart and emotions. And those attempts never satisfy.  Stay connected and allow the Holy Spirit within you to communicate with My Holy Spirit…. Pray”without ceasing” and you will have the assurance of your position in Me through the work of Jesus.”

“Because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Romans 8:14-16