It
is important to differentiate between justification and sanctification.
Justification is another word for salvation. Jesus gave his life on the cross
as a sacrifice for our sins. His blood washes away our sins and frees us from
an eternity of suffering and condemnation. Believers are saved because of what
Christ has already done. We can do nothing to earn salvation, it is the gift
given to every child of God regardless of race, age, maturity, or merit. Sanctification occurs as a result of
salvation. At the moment of conversion, the Holy Spirit enters our life.
We are no longer held hostage by death, but are free to live the life God desires
for us. We are thus sanctified simply because of our standing as lost souls
saved by grace.
But how do we pursue sanctification?
How are we personally responsible? Lovingly, God has sent His Holy Spirit and
His written Word, the Bible, to guide us. Though every person's sanctification
is unique and personal, there are common disciplines in the pursuit of
sanctification that are unchanging. Prayer
is of utmost importance. When we pray, we are in spiritual union with God. Not
only will prayer comfort us in our hardship, but it will also give us the
strength to overcome sin. Through prayer, we are also more sensitive to the
leading of the Holy Spirit. God has also given us the written Word - the Bible. The Bible is not merely a
history book, but its words have the power to sanctify us. God's Word also has
the power to transform our mind, convict, and bring to light the darkness that
is within our hearts. It is the instrument which God uses to develop in us
knowledge, faith, and personal holiness; all of which are essential elements of
sanctification. Whether by studying or listening to teaching, the sanctifying
work of God's Word is enormous to a believer who recognizes its truth and
power. Believers are also sanctified in worship.
True fervent worship is what God desires from His people. When our worship is
genuine, it transforms our hearts and brings us into close union with God.
We have all sinned and deserve God's judgment.
God, the Father, sent His only Son to satisfy that judgment for those
who believe in Him. Jesus, the creator and eternal Son of God, who lived a
sinless life, loves us so much that He died for our sins, taking the punishment
that we deserve, was buried, and rose from the dead according to the Bible. If
you truly believe and trust this in your heart, receiving Jesus alone as your
Savior, declaring, "Jesus is Lord," you will be saved from judgment and
spend eternity with God in heaven.
God Bless!
