How do I get right with God?

How do I get right with God? We're going to answer that question. In order to get right with God, we must first understand what is wrong. The answer is sin. There is no one who does good, not even one.

We have rebelled against God's commands. We, like sheep, have gone astray. The bad news is that the penalty for sin is death. The soul who sins is the one who will die. The good news is that a loving God has pursued us in order to bring us salvation.

Christ’s Mission to Seek and Save the Lost

Jesus declared his purpose was to seek and to save what was lost, and he accomplished that mission when he died on the cross saying, It is finished. Having a right relationship with God begins with acknowledging your sin.

Confession, Repentance, and Faith in Christ

Next comes a humble confession of your sin to God. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. This repentance must be accompanied by faith.

Specifically, faith that Jesus' sacrificial death and miraculous resurrection qualify him to be your Savior. If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

The Prodigal Son and the Father’s Forgiveness

A beautiful illustration of repentance and forgiveness is the parable of the prodigal.

Son.

The younger son wasted his father's gift in shameful sin. When he acknowledged his wrongdoing, he decided to return home. He assumed he would no longer be considered a son, but he was wrong. The father loved the returned rebel as much as ever.

All was forgiven, and a celebration ensued. God is good to keep his promises, including the promise to forgive. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. If you want to get right with God, here is a simple prayer.

Trusting Christ Alone for Salvation

Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. It is only trusting in Christ that can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in him and thank him for providing for your salvation.

God, I know that I have sinned against you and am deserving of punishment, but Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in him, I can be forgiven. I place my trust in you for salvation.

Thank you for your wonderful grace and forgiveness, the gift of eternal life.

Amen.

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