Meditation 19 Am I Really Saved?

I have met people who, from earliest memory, have had a confidence that they belonged to God. They never doubted for one moment that they were saved; that they had been born again. Most of us, however, when going through some particular temptation, or falling into sin, do not have an experiential assurance of saving faith. We may ask ourselves in these times, "Am I really saved?" 

There are believers who never experience a full knowledge of assurance of salvation, while others experience it intermittently throughout their lives. The question "am I saved" is a great question to ask ourselves, for we never want to grow smug in our faith. There are two dangers we face in seeking assurance; one, we can throw our hands in the air and give up. We can come to the conclusion that it's impossible to know for sure. The second is the opposite, we can experience a kind of false assurance where we never bother to ask ourselves if we are really among the beloved of God. Both are equally dangerous. 

Dear struggling believer, if you are asking yourself if you are truly converted, consider the question itself a mercy of God and do not ignore it. Make use of your concern and ask yourself 1) Do you believe the Gospel promises; do you believe in the finished work of Jesus and that all who call upon Him will be saved? Do you believe that, on the cross, Jesus was your substitute? Do you believe in the merits of Christ; that He not only gives new life, but also applies to your credit His perfect obedience to the law? 2) Do you have an inward witness of the Holy Spirit? Have you ever felt conviction of sin? Have you ever felt love for God? Have you ever run to Jesus as the only one who can undertake your salvation? 3) The third is perhaps the most important, do you have any evidence, or fruits of sanctification? Have you any desire to obey God? Have you any sin-killing, world-overcoming, heart-cleaning desire for God. Have you accepted Jesus as your Master as well as your Savior? 

There is no Assurance Test to take, no score card or grade posting. However, if you are struggling with your assurance, let these three questions be a guid for you. If the genuine answer of your heart is "No, I don't have any of these thing in my life", do not lose hope. God is even now calling you turn to Him afresh and find in Him a surety for your soul.   

Father, I know that all whom You have given your Son will never be lost (John 6:37). Give me a proactive faith that I am numbered among them.