CONNECT WITH GOD

Man was created to have fellowship with God. Due to man's self-will, he has chosen to live independently from God and this independence has broken fellowship with God. (Romans 3:23) This self-will, characterized by an attitude of active rebellion or passive indifference, is evidence of what the Bible calls sin. (Romans 6:23)

God is holy and man is sinful and because of this difference there is a great gulf between them. Man is continually trying to reach God and the abundant life He offers through his own efforts. The good news is that God made a way so that man can know Him and experience His love and plan for his life. God bridged the gulf that separates him from man by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to pay the penalty for our sins with His own life and restore our relationship to Him. (John 14:6)

However, we must individually receive this act of grace from God. This involves turning from your self and turning to God and trusting Christ to come into your heart and life to forgive your sins. When you confess to Him that you believe He paid the penalty for your sin-when He died in your place, on the cross. (John 1:12; John 3:1-8) then you must trust Him to forgive you of your sins and allow Him to make you into the kind of person He wants you to be. You receive Jesus Christ by faith, as an act of your will. (Rev 3:20)

The Bible promises eternal life to all who receive Christ! (1 John 5:11-13) If you have done this, you can thank God that Christ is in your life now and that He will never leave you. (Hebrews 15:5)

If you want Christ to give you His forgiveness and new life, pray this prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus,

I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe you died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite you to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow you as my Lord and Savior.

In Jesus Name. Amen.

To grow in your relationship now, you must:

•  Continue to talk to God daily. (John 15:7)
•  Read the Bible daily (Acts 17:11); begin with the gospel of John.
•  Trust God with the details of your life. (1 Peter 5:7)
• Connect in fellowship with other Christians. (Hebrews 10:25)

I would be happy to help you get to know God better, and I can help you connect with other believers in a small Bible study group to help you grow in your spiritual journey with God.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our pastors at 760-518-6732.