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VBVMI StaffSometimes I wonder if I am actually saved? Is there a criteria or test to be sure?
First, the test of salvation is clear in scripture:
If you have done these things, then you are saved for eternity. Following salvation, we continue to live in a sinful, fleshly body for a time, and in that state we experience disappointments that all Christians, even the Apostle Paul, share. Consider what Paul said about himself in Romans 7:
It’s it remarkable that Paul describes himself as someone who is “practicing what I would like to do”? Clearly, if the Apostle Paul was prone to live in sin from time to time, then we can all expect to be disappointed in our behavior as well.
Believers are not perfect; we are simply forgiven of our sin. Your faith in Jesus Christ and your love for His word are proof of your salvation, and the fact that you continue to sin from time to time is merely proof that you continue to occupy a sinful, fleshly body. One day the Lord will rescue us from our this tombs of flesh, and in that day we will be like Christ.
Meanwhile, the Sprit living in us works to convict us of sin so that we will move beyond it, confirming ourselves to a life of godliness. Do not doubt your salvation simply because you feel guilt for your sin. On the contrary, your conviction is proof of the Holy Spirit working in you to sanctify you. As Paul says:
Scripture quotations taken from the (NASB®) New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.lockman.org