At times, when I read the bible, I find the concept of being saved by grace complex. I mean, it goes against our human nature to understand such love especially from an all-powerful God. Besides that, there are verses in the bible that give high value on how we behave on this earth and its resulting effect on our heavenly standing which further complicates things. But when I get confused, I like to head back to the basics of our salvation – the simple truth outlined in Romans 10 verses 9-10 which says:
"That 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. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved."
So, when you boil it down, Paul explains that it really comes down to two major steps; confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead. If you are confused about your faith or your standing with God, I encourage you to start with this simple portion of scripture. Have you believed in your heart, I mean really believed that God raised Jesus from the dead? And have you confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, Lord of your life? Those two things must be solid. There is a relationship that Jesus calls us to, but none of that really matters until we’ve taken this step of faith. So when things get too confusing with your Christian walk, or when you are led astray by life, I encourage you to come back to this anchor, and start from the beginning remembering the two steps that set you on the path to salvation.
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The two steps that Paul lays out for us in Romans 10 is that we are to confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in our heart that God raised him from the dead, and we will be saved. Yes, there is certainly more to Christianity like repentance, denying ourselves and taking up our cross. But if your compass is eschewed, point your way back to him, but focusing on these two steps. Once you get yourself back on track, I encourage you to get back in touch with the Holy Spirit who will lead you through life and help you correctly understand the rest of the story.