Thursday: Once saved, always saved

A question asked of me often is: Can we lose our salvation? The Bible is clear the answer is no because once saved always saved. When focusing on sin this week, it is important to also look at how God forever keeps us. Like many things in life, there are some who debate this concept. Losing one’s salvation makes little sense of who God is. Here’s why:

The fortress
A Psalmist stated in Pslam 91 how God is our refuge. This concept of God protecting and watching over us if throughout the Psalms. The concept of God keeping and restoring us is amazing on a couple of fronts. First, God knows that we are not perfect. Second, God understands the reality of living in a broken world. Regardless of what happens to us, we can be secure with God.

Nothing
When we read Romans 8:38-39 we see that nothing can keep us from God’s love. Nothing. When Paul says this he makes a very clear statement: “I am convinced.” This makes our security in God through Christ a sure thing. This is why we should feel free to work through our sin without guilt. The most important relationship is secure because of Jesus.

Yeah but…
Ok, so God punished Israel. Guess what, when we read Romans 11 we see that God will also show mercy to Israel that he may show mercy to all. God is wired to show mercy. God has an amazing plan for people that we cannot fully wrap our minds around. God keeps his promises for sure and will fulfill them. Ironically Peter says we should not count God’s patience as an opportunity to sin but to repent.

Hope
God is the source of all hope when it comes to our sin. He died for it, covered, keeps you despite it, redeems you from it, and one day will toss it. While dealing with sin is awkward, frightening, or frustrating, God does not let it be the end of our story. Our story ends with “we win.” Why? Because when Jesus rose from the grave he conquered the power of sin and death.

Journalling questions
How do I see God as my fortress?
Why to I run to or from God when I’m face with my sin?
Where am I placing my hope and why?