Keeping the Blessing
Salvation is not a one-time declaration where you say, “I accept Jesus,” and then return to living an unholy life (2 Peter 2:22). The idea of “once saved, always saved” or eternal security apart from a holy life is not biblical (Hebrews 12:14, Matthew 24:13, John 15:6, 2 Peter 2:20-22, James 2:17, Galatians 6:7-8, Hebrews 6:4-6, Revelation 3:5, 1 Corinthians 10:12). True salvation is the beginning of a lifelong relationship with Christ, marked by continual growth, obedience, and devotion.
Living a Holy Life
God’s Word calls us to holiness. As believers, we are to walk in the light of Christ, turning away from sin and striving to live a life that pleases Him:
- “Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16).
- “Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).
Salvation involves more than a decision; it demands daily surrender to Jesus as Lord over every area of your life. It is not enough to claim faith while continuing in sinful or worldly ways. Instead, we must bear fruit that reflects the transforming power of the Holy Spirit in our lives:
- “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
- “Faith, if it hath not works, is dead” (James 2:17).
A Relationship, Not a Ritual
Walking with Jesus is not about performing religious rituals or checking off tasks. It’s about cultivating a genuine, personal relationship with Him. This means spending time in His presence through:
Prayer: Prayer is the lifeline of your relationship with God. It’s how you talk to Him, pour out your heart, and seek His guidance. The Bible reminds us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Reading the Word: God speaks to us through His Word. Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture helps us know His will and grow in wisdom. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105).
This relationship requires effort, consistency, and sincerity. Seek Him daily, not out of obligation but out of love and desire to know Him more.
Continuing in Faith
Jesus Himself warned against a superficial faith that does not endure. True discipleship involves steadfastness and perseverance:
- “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31).
- “He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13).
Falling back into a worldly life is a rejection of the grace of God. Paul wrote, “Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid” (Romans 6:1-2). Salvation calls us to a transformed life, where we die to sin and live for righteousness.
Seek to Please Him Every Day
Living as a follower of Christ means seeking to honor and please God in every aspect of your life. Your choices, actions, and words should reflect your commitment to Him. The goal is to make progress—continually drawing closer to Him through surrender and obedience.
- “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
- “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8).
Stay Connected to the Vine
Jesus likened our relationship with Him to branches connected to a vine. Apart from Him, we can do nothing, but when we remain in Him, we bear much fruit:
- “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me” (John 15:4).
Staying connected to Jesus requires ongoing faith, commitment, and love. Salvation is not a finish line but a starting point—a journey of growing closer to God every day.
Make Every Day Count
Salvation is not just about securing a place in heaven; it’s about walking with Jesus here and now. Make it your daily goal to seek Him, love Him, and live a life that glorifies Him. This is a relationship that requires effort, but the rewards are eternal:
- “Well done, thou good and faithful servant…enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21).
Salvation is not a momentary decision but a lifelong walk with the Savior. Commit to Him daily, grow in His grace, and please Him with your life.