How Should we Live as Christians Once We’ve Accepted Jesus as our Savior?
(Notes from a radio broadcast in 2020 – Pastor Robert Jeffress)
Do everything for the glory of God – if you know your purpose on this earth, be obedient to God’s word and seek to give God the credit for your good choices.
Be forgiving of and generous to others – is there someone you know who needs help? If you have a car and can give them a ride, give them the ride. If they need help with yard work, do something to help at no charge. Look for opportunities to help someone else. If anyone has offended you in any way, forgive immediately.
Look for Opportunities to help those in need – help your parents if you live at home. Help your spouse and kids when they appear to be struggling. Your church family certainly has opportunities to help the elderly, the sick, widows, children, and those mourning loss. Look for 1 or 2 people to help and let them know about Jesus’ love and desire to save them.
Seek to live as Jesus lived – He spread the word of the gospel while showing kindness and humility in all situations. People loved Him and learned from him. Be that person to others; set the example of kindness and humility for others to see.
Seek to offset the cultural norms that are opposed to God – we know God watches and we have been entrusted to teach others through words and example. Step up and influence others when you see a wrong being committed.
Resist temptation so that you are blameless in God’s eyes – God gives us everything we need for believing and trusting in Him. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to resist Satan and remain obedient to God and His word (the Bible is our guide for living). Memorize scripture so that you are able to recall it in times of testing and temptation. You have the power to resist Satan because you have been saved.
Learn how to deal with your problems by searching for God’s truth – look beyond the concepts you are currently learning or being taught, measuring them against what you know about God’s truth. Seek to understand what God would say about anything you are going through.
When all else fails, pray! – It is assumed when we become Christians that we pray often and then wait on God’s timing for answers. Sometimes while waiting, prayer can bring comfort and hope. Ask others to pray for you, too. This is where church membership is helpful (and oftentimes critical); prayer warriors may exist in your church! Rely on prayer just as you rely on oxygen to breathe.
Live with the end in mind – have courage, purpose, and go out and make a difference in the world. God guides us and rewards those who are obedient to His word. When we die, we leave everything behind. All we bring with us is our spirit of hope in how we helped influence others to follow Jesus.
When the End Comes
When it comes to eternal life, know that you will receive the gift of salvation based on faith alone. Living as a Christian (as described above) is the evidence of your faith. Wake up and stand firm. Be prepared and ready for the time of your death.