Why do we need God?
You and I were created to live in a relationship with God. Until we find that relationship there will always be something missing in our lives. As a result, we are often aware of a gap. One rock singer described it by saying: "I've got an emptiness deep inside." Further (and much more authoritative than the rock star), the Bible teaches that no one is righteous (or good, or perfect). That means you. And me. You and me both, we come up short of God's standard of perfect holiness. We lie. We cheat. We steal. We lust. That's the bad news. If you are honest with yourself, you already knew the bad news. Ready for the good news?
Why Bother With Jesus?
Jesus, unlike everyone else, is perfect. He is righteous. And, according to the Bible, God decided to allow the one (who is perfect) to represent everyone else (those not perfect). Through that representation, those who are not righteous are counted as righteous!
God offers us forgiveness and freedom in Christ Jesus and His Spirit to live within us. All this is a gift from God. When someone offers us a present, we have a choice. We can accept it, open it and enjoy it or we can refuse the gift and say, "No, thank you." Sadly, many people make excuses for not accepting the gift God offers.
What Do We Have To Do?
The New Testament makes it clear that we have to do something to accept the gift that God offers. This is an act of faith.
"Sorry"
You have to ask God to forgive you for all the things you have done wrong and turn from everything that you know is wrong in your life. This is what the Bible means by "repentance."
"Thank You"
You believe that Jesus died for you on the cross. You need to thank Him for dying for you and for the offer of His free gifts of forgiveness, freedom and His Spirit.
"Please"
God never forces His way into our lives. You need to accept His gift and invite Him to come and live within you by His Spirit.
If you would like to have a relationship with God and you are ready to say these three things, then here is a very simple prayer you can pray that will be the start of that relationship:
Lord Jesus Christ,
I am sorry for the things I have done wrong in my life. [Take a few moments to ask His forgiveness for anything particular that is on your conscience.] Please forgive me. I now turn from everything that I know is wrong. Thank you that you died on the cross and that you were raised to life so I could be forgiven and set free. Thank you for your forgiveness and the gift of your Spirit. I now receive that gift. Please come into my life by your Holy Spirit, to be with me forever.
Thank you, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Now what?
Welcome to the family! Now it is time to praise God by telling your story to your family, friends, and neighbors. We would also like to hear your story and help you connect with other believers in a small group.