How To Know Jesus

We have a problem. A big one.

Something is broken in our world. There’s, confusion, loneliness, heartache, and despair everywhere we look. Maybe you know that from personal experience. Maybe you’re experiencing it right now.

According to the Bible, our deepest problem is that sin has disconnected us from the God who created us. The One who made us to enjoy life with Him is now a stranger.

Scripture says: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

Each of us has fallen short—in our thoughts, our words, and our actions. No one has lived according to God’s perfect standard. None of us is righteous.

It’s no wonder we have despair, heartache, loneliness, and confusion.

Worse, our separation from God comes with a severe cost. The Bible says:

“For the wages of sin is death…” — Romans 6:23

Not just physical death, spiritual death too.

Left unresolved, sin leads to eternal separation from the One who loves you most. It results in an everlasting penalty.

But here’s some good news: God doesn’t want to leave you there.

He knows you,

He likes you, and

He wants to be with you.

He wants to restore the relationship sin has broken. That’s why He sent His Son, Jesus.

Jesus lived the perfect life we could never live and willingly gave His life on the cross to pay the penalty for our sin. He took our place. He took our penalty.

Then He rose again, defeating sin and death for all who believe.

Because of what Jesus did, a restored relationship with God is available. That’s why the Bible also says:

“…the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 6:23

Now, as you probably know, a gift must be accepted. So, the Bible calls us to accept it by faith. To trust in Jesus—To give Him our believing loyalty—To take His gift and make it our own—to believe that His death and resurrection are enough to save us and bring us into relationship with God.

Jesus said: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16

Maybe you’ve heard that verse before. The question today is: what will you do with it?

Does the idea of forgiveness, peace with God, and a new life sound like something your heart has been searching for? If so, you can place your trust in Him right now.

A prayer like the following can help express that trust. The prayer itself doesn’t save you—Jesus does. It’s simply a way of honestly expressing your faith in Him and marking the beginning of your new life with God:

“Father God, I know that I am sinful and that my sins have separated me from You. I believe that Jesus’ death and resurrection paid the price for my sin and made a way for me to come home to You. Today I place my trust completely in Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for Your mercy, Your forgiveness, and the gift of eternal life. Amen.”

Now what?

Well, this moment is just the start. Here are some resources to help you deepen your new relationship with God.

Now that I’m a Christian – C. Michael Patton

Christian Beliefs – Wayne A. Grudem

We also strongly encourage you to find a local, bible-teaching, church and begin attending worship services. It will do your soul good.

There’ll be more resource suggestions like these. Check back here periodically for future educational recommendations.

And welcome to the family of God!