The bible tells us four things about why each person needs to do this in the heart to make their peace with God and to ensure their eternal destiny.
Romans 3:23 says that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. This is essentially what sin is – when we behave in contravention of God’s standard. All of us do this all of the time. Sometimes we know what these things are and we carry guilt or regret or shame for them. Other times we can do this ignorantly. Just like we can do so in a relationship with a loved one. Christians are not “good people” because no one can be good enough to please God in our own strength. Ironically, Christians are those who have realized that they are not good and need God’s help.
Romans 6:23 says that the wages of sin is death. This death is a spiritual death and speaks of our separation from God who gives life to our spirit. Often people think of God’s punishment as being sent to hell, and eternal separation from God is a real predicament. However being out of relationship with God also leaves us devoid of his love, purpose and help which is enough punishment in itself.
John 3:16 is one of the most famous verses in the bible. It says that God loved us so much that he sent his only son, Jesus, to come to earth and die for us so that we could escape punishment and enjoy relationship with God. Jesus lived a sinless life and died a gruesome death on a cross at the hands of the Roman Empire so that we could be spared the punishment of sin that was due to us.
Romans 10:13 says that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. This requires asking for forgiveness for our sin and allowing Jesus to guide us according to God’s good purpose for our lives. He does this most powerfully through the bible and through the church.
You can do this by saying this simple prayer.
Dear Jesus, I thank you for your death and resurrection on the cross for me. I know that you love me and have a plan for my life. Today I choose to stop living my own way. I ask for forgiveness for the times I’ve fallen short of your standards. And I invite you to be the leader of my life and to help me follow your ways. Come into my life right now. In Jesus Name. Amen.
If you have prayed this prayer, or would like to find out more about saying YES to Jesus, we would love to help you with your spiritual journey. Please complete the contact details below and one of our pastors will be in touch with you in the next few days.