From Bill : Gut check. Remember salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone & heavenly rewards are merit based. Note this scripture: Matt 7:21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, & cast out demons in your name, & do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 & then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’” How can we be absolutely sure we know the Lord? —How can we be sure our works will not burn up at the Judgement Seat of Christ leaving us with salvation but little reward? 1.We must believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. 2.We should see some progress in our lives over time & Have a desire to be like Him. BUT HERE is the acid test. 3. Do you love God & love each other. This is “the will of God” mentioned above. Ask God to increase your capacity to love. Just like faith – it is at once a gift & a decision. Though it may sound confusing it seems to be the eternal currency. Love is the most important thing. Jesus said we MUST love God & our neighbor. It’s a command. You Shall love… . Ask for love. Pray for love. What is love? Love is service. Love is compassion. Love is intimacy with God. Love is crying out inside for the poor, the sick, the hurting. It is seeing Jesus in everyone. He doesn’t really care if you heal the sick, feed the hungry or cast out demons if you have not love. He cares that you love Him & serve others from love. Love God as daddy & your neighbor as yourself. If you have love you will have it all. Love Mel
