Colossians 2:6-7(NIV) So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

I was reminded the other day that out of the scores of people who have raised their hand to receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior at evangelistic crusades and elsewhere, only six percent follow through with their commitment. The danger of this is that many folks think that because they raised their hand to receive Jesus one day at a church, a crusade or anywhere else, their salvation is secure, even though they continue to live in the same sinful way that they did before they “accepted Jesus” into their hearts. The evidence shows that the only thing that happened was that they raised their hands, not that they surrendered their hearts to Christ.

The Bible is clear that the evidence of salvation is continuing to follow Jesus. It’s not a one-time event that effects no change, but instead is a transformational moment that turns into a life-changing and life-long journey. If you say you received Jesus but don’t continue to live your life in Him, then the reality is that you didn’t receive Jesus. You may have had an emotional moment or may not have known what that decision entailed, but the fact that you don’t continue speaks for itself. Perhaps you didn’t know that it’s an all or nothing at all decision. It means that you surrender your life, your heart, your dreams and your plans to Him. It means that you become a brand-new person (2 Corinthians 5:17) with a brand-new trajectory for your life. Your roots begin to go deeper and deeper into the love of God and your faith in Jesus increases until you not only believe what Jesus said, but you know without a doubt that it is all true and you live your life based on those truths.

Living your brand-new life is not a burden or an unpleasant experience. On the contrary, you begin to experience peace in the midst of your troubles and joy in the midst of your pain. You lose your fear because if God is with you and for you, you learn that there is absolutely nothing to be afraid about. Although you don’t start out with all of that certainty, the key to reach the goal of your faith and become steadfast and strong in the Lord is to continue. When you first start out, your aim is to continue. When times get tough, you continue. When distractions try to steal your attention, you don’t look away from Jesus, but you continue. When something happens making life seem unfair you continue, knowing that Jesus will work everything out for your good. Living this way leads to an overflow of thanksgiving because your eyes are opened to the truth, and it’s the truth that sets you free (John 8:31-32). Whatever happens, continue! Continue to love and serve the Lord Jesus for an abundant life!

Pastor Joey Vazquez