Bulletin 23 - A BELIEVERS IDENTITY
It can be said categorically and without hesitation, that one becomes a believer through a personal invitation from God. It can come in a variety of circumstances that may be or may not seem to be highly significant at the time - only to be truly discovered in due course.
And its impact is profound. Very fortunate is the person who obtains a call through the Holy Spirit, a most vital life event that some, unfortunately, do miss, sometimes from ignorance. Each person must decide to accept the Lord personally; it does not come from any other agency. It has to be nurtured to grow. Each person has their individual experiences.
God decides to whom and when the call is given. Some who are unfamiliar with the spiritual will resist this process that may leave them puzzled. for a time, yet a vital process has already begun. The bible tells us something of importance to guide us on the journey of discipleship.
Ephesians (Paul) 4:14 NIV says - Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. v 4.15. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is Christ. v 4.16. From him, the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.v 4: 2: Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.v 4. 3. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. v 4.4. There is one body and one Spirit- just as you were called to one hope when you were called- v 4. 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; v 4. 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. What this says is that we live in God and He lives in us. v 5:14. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible. This is why it is said: "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."Galatians 5:16 - So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. v 5.17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so you do not do what you want. v 5..18. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the [Mosaic] law but under Jesus.
In conclusion, we have the key to becoming one of God's inspired and faithful children. And we then begin to take note of His requirements for obedience and loyalty, engaging in regular prayerful petitions and loving service. Take note of God's instructions and obey them without any qualms.
Blessings to everyone- AMEN.