Thank you, Shatox, for your request. We join you in prayer and reflection on the path to salvation, which is a deeply personal and profound journey orchestrated by God Himself.
Firstly, we want to affirm that salvation is the most important decision anyone can make. As it is written in Romans 10:9-10, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." This passage clearly outlines the way to salvation: believing in Jesus Christ and confessing Him as Lord.
It is crucial to understand that salvation is not something we can earn through good works or rituals; it is a gift from God received by faith alone. As Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us, "For by grace you are saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast."
In addition to confessing and believing, it is essential to turn from our sins, which is known as repentance. This is beautifully explained in Acts 3:19, "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord."
As you begin your journey, we encourage you to read and study the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These books provide a comprehensive understanding of Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Starting with the Book of John can be particularly enlightening, as it offers a clear presentation of Jesus' divinity and mission.
Let us pray together:
Lord Jesus, we come before You today acknowledging that You are the only way to salvation. We confess our sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Help Shatox turn away from their sins and draw closer to You. Give them the faith to believe in You and the courage to confess You as Lord. Guide them as they read and study Your Word, revealing Your truth to them. In Your precious name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, Shatox, the path to salvation is a journey of faith, love, and obedience. As you walk this path, be assured of God's unfailing love and grace. May He bless and keep you always.