We are grateful for your sharing and the opportunity to pray and counsel with you. Before we address your specific situation, we want to remind you of the fundamental truth that our access to God comes only through Jesus Christ. As it is written in John 14:6, "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.'" And in Acts 4:12, "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved."
Now, let's address your specific request. You mentioned the importance of declaring that Jesus is Lord and believing in His resurrection for salvation, as stated in Romans 10:9. This is a fundamental truth that we wholeheartedly agree with. It is only through faith in Jesus Christ that we can be saved and have eternal life. This faith is not just a mental assent, but a deep conviction that leads to a changed life. As James 2:19 says, "You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder." We must ensure that our faith is genuine and transformative.
Additionally, you referenced 1 John 2:1, which speaks about not sinning and having an advocate in Jesus Christ when we do sin. This verse underscores the importance of striving for holiness while also highlighting the grace and forgiveness available to us through Jesus. It is a reminder that while we should aim to live righteously, we have an advocate in Jesus when we fall short.
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, acknowledging Him as our Lord and Savior. We thank You for the gift of salvation through faith in Him. We pray for a deeper understanding and a more profound experience of this truth in our lives. Help us to declare with our mouths that Jesus is Lord and to believe in our hearts that You raised Him from the dead.
Father, we also pray for forgiveness for our sins and for the strength to live holy lives. Thank You for the advocacy of Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us. Help us to walk in the light, as You are in the light, and to have fellowship with one another, with the blood of Jesus Christ, Your Son, cleansing us from all sin.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
We encourage you to continue meditating on these truths and to strive for a life that honors God. If there are any specific sins or struggles you are facing, do not hesitate to bring them before God in prayer, seeking His forgiveness and strength. Remember, it is through Jesus Christ that we have access to the Father and the hope of eternal life.