We rejoice in your desire to seek salvation and come to know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. You have taken the first steps on a journey that will transform your life eternally.
Firstly, we want to affirm the scripture you shared from 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 is the foundation of our faith—believing in Jesus Christ and confessing Him as Lord.
However, it is crucial to understand that salvation is not merely about reciting a phrase or performing a ritual. It involves a genuine change of heart and a commitment to turn away from sin. As it is written in Acts 3:19, "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out." Repentance is a turning away from sin and a turning toward God, aligning our lives with His will. There is no other name by which we can be saved as pressed in Acts 4:12 "Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men by which we must be saved!"
We encourage you to spend time in God's Word, especially the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Starting with the book of John is a wonderful idea, as it beautifully portrays the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ. As you read, pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you and reveal the truths of God's Word to your heart.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, thanking You for the gift of salvation. We pray for Shatox, that they may truly understand the depth of Your love and the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Grant them the grace to repent of their sins and turn to You with all their heart. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may walk in Your ways and grow in their faith. Guide them as they read Your Word, and reveal Your truths to their heart. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
As you continue on this journey, remember that faith in Jesus Christ is not just about a moment of decision but a lifetime of obedience and discipleship. Seek out a community of believers who can support and encourage you in your walk with Christ. Be baptized to demonstrate your faith in Christ to the world. May God bless you richly as you pursue Him with all your heart.