The Bible gives us a clear picture of God’s character and qualities.

There is only one God. Throughout history, humanity has sought gods of imagination, lust, and superstition. The phrase “I am the Lord” appears 161 times in the Old Testament, clearly emphasizing that he is the one and only true God. There is no other God that exists.

I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: ^{Isaiah 45:5}

God is Omniscient. God knows everything, including the past, present, and future. Nothing surprises him, and nothing is hidden from him.

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do (to whom we must answer). ^{Hebrews 4:13}

God is Omnipresent. He is everywhere at once; you cannot escape his presence. 

Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. ^{Psalm 139:7-10}

God is Omnipotent. His power is beyond our comprehension, and there are no limits to what he can do. God is in control of everything, all the time.

 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. ^{Matthew 19:26}

An Eternal and Unchanging God. God is the same today, tomorrow, and forever.

The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. ^{Isaiah 40:8}

 Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed: But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end. ^{Psalm 102:25-27}

God is Righteous. He is the author of all that is good; he is moral perfection. In him, there is no evil or error. To be in his presence, one must also be morally perfect, and only those clothed in the righteousness of Jesus Christ are deemed to meet this impossible standard.

For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright. ^{Psalm 11:7}

The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works. ^{Psalm 145:17}

This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. ^{1 John 1:5}

A God of Wisdom: God’s wisdom of God is flawless, righteous, loving, kind, impartial, and far beyond man’s ability to comprehend.

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, (reasonable) full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. ^{James 3:17}

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. ^{Romans 11:33-36}

The wisdom of God is very often contrary to the wisdom of man. He chose a Christian killer to become the greatest evangelist ever known. He proclaims that there is no one greater than a man who lives in the wilderness, surviving on honey and locusts. And he favors the humble, the lowest elements of humanity, for salvation and glorification.

Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence. ^{1st Corinthians 1:25-29}

A God of Love God demonstrated remarkable love for humanity by sacrificing his Son to atone for our sins. That love endures today, as each of us has the opportunity to accept his gift of salvation and eternal life. He did this for people who opposed him, not those who loved him. Those who are not for God, who live in sin, are against him; yet he has provided them with a path to salvation instead of an eternity of suffering.

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. ^{Romans 5:8-11}

A God of Patience God is patient, giving humanity thousands of years to turn to him. He is also patient with us individually, waiting a lifetime for us to repent and accept his Son. However, his patience has limits, and judgment is coming.

 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. ^{2 Peter 3:8-9}

A God of Assurance and Comfort. Our lives as Christians are not free of trials and troubles, nor are they meant to be. We will face tests in this life, and these tests can be severe. Thankfully, God is always with us, and our fate is in his righteous and loving hands. We trust him that all things work together for our ultimate good. Those who have faith in Christ can find comfort in this promise. However, those who do not have faith in Christ must face life’s challenges alone, and not all things work for their good.

The Lord is nigh (close) unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite (crushed) spirit. ^{Psalm 34:18}

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. ^{Psalm 23}

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ^{Romans 8:28}

A God of Provision. God supplies everything necessary to live according to his will. His provision is abundant for those who live for him, sometimes beyond reason

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. ^{Luke 11:9-10}

A God to Call Father. As adopted sons and daughters, we look to God as our Father. He teaches, guides, protects, corrects, and disciplines us with love.

And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. ^{Galatians 4:6}

A Sovereign God. God is the ultimate power and authority. He makes decisions and choices according to his good pleasure. No power or being can thwart his will.

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. ^{Colossians1:16-17}

A God of Justice and Punishment. God is just and cannot condone sin, for which the penalty is death; and the unrepentant, unredeemed souls will receive just that.

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. ^{Hebrews 10:30}

A God to be Feared. Because he is the ultimate authority and power, we stand in awe, reverence, respect, and obedience before him. We fear offending God and desire, above all else, to walk in a manner that pleases him. For those who are lost, there is no fear of God because he is perceived as an abstract or fictional concept. However, after this life, when the words in the Bible are proven true, they will surely come to experience a fear of God. Their fear, though, will not be one of respect; instead, it will be a fear born of remorse and terror – the crushing fear of judgment, condemnation, and imminent eternal agony – fear of the inescapable wrath of God.

Because of this reality, we are deeply grieved for those who have no fear of God and have turned away from Christ. They are destined to face the consequences of their unrepentant sin, and their fate is so terrible that it is unbearable to think about it.

Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. ^{Hebrews 10:29-31}

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. ^{Proverbs 9:10}

A God of Mercy. God is merciful to the contrite who have turned in faith to his son. His mercy is inexhaustible to those who love him.

It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. ^{Lamentations 3:22-23}

A God of Redemption. Jesus has redeemed us from the penalty of the law that illuminates our sins. This is God’s marvelous gift and an astounding demonstration of his love, providing us salvation from the wrath that is to come – wrath that we richly deserve.

That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. ^{John 3:15-18}

A God Beyond Comprehension. God, who is everywhere, knows everything, created everything, and whose plans and outcomes were predetermined before time and never fail, cannot be understood by man. We cannot comprehend how he operates. We understand God as well as a dog understands us.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. ^{Proverbs 3:5}

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my was saith the Lord. ^{Isaiah 55:8}

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. ^{Romans 11:33-36}

This is the nature of God: ruler, architect, creator, the incomprehensible sustainer of all things. He is the righteous and merciful judge, redeeming the faithful and punishing the disobedient

God created man and set him above all other creatures with the qualities and competencies of a self-conscious and rational being (a person). He gave us intellect, the ability to grasp abstract concepts (such as faith, morality, truth or lies, and evil), faculties of communication, and feelings of deep emotion. We also possess the capability to act of our own free will, as we have agency, and the ability to make choices. These attributes are elements of personhood; qualities that make us meaningful and valuable. This is what is meant by “made in the image of God”. We have dignity and worth, creatures built for relationships; God created us to have a relationship with him.

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. ^{Genesis 1:26}

But the elements of the image of God in which we were made are of capability, not so much character. Man is an innovative and resourceful creature, but he does not possess, in any meaningful way, God’s divine characteristics, particularly that of righteousness. To be righteous is to be morally correct, and we all fall far short of God’s standard of perfection.

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: ^{Romans 3:10}

for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. ^{Romans 3:23}

We see this clearly and profoundly in the world’s immorality and depravity. We also notice it in our daily lives, as we often prioritize our pleasure and comfort. We place our interests, desires, and love of worldly things above our love for God. Jesus tells us that the most important commandment is: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” ^{Matthew 22:37-38} To love God is to obey him, and to hate God is to live against his will, violating his commandments. This is sin, a malady common to all mankind.

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. ^{Hebrews 10:30-31}

God is clear about how he deals with sin. Every person will be held accountable for their unforgiven sins, and the penalty is eternal damnation. We all deserve God’s wrath that will come when we stand before him and face his judgment..

And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. ^{Revelation 20:11-13}

The unrighteous nature of man and the coming judgment raise a crucial question. If no one, no matter how hard they try, can meet God’s perfect standard of righteousness, are we then doomed to suffer in Hell forever? The answer is yes.

This is why mankind desperately needs a Savior.

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. ^{Romans 6:23}

The good news is that Jesus Christ is the Savior we desperately need. He was crucified to pay the penalty for our sins, saving us from condemnation and eternal punishment in hell. By his brutal death, which is a propitiation to God, we are offered the opportunity to be declared righteous and to be reconciled with and at peace with him. Through God’s mercy, we are forgiven of our sins, and by his grace, we become his beloved children, enjoying benefits both in this life and the next.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. ^{John 3:16-17} 

Three days after his crucifixion, Jesus was resurrected from the dead, confirming his deity and the effectiveness of his atonement for us. His resurrection proved that he is who he claimed to be and that everything he said is true. Jesus defeated death, and the promise is that we, too, will be resurrected to eternal life.

Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: ^{Romans 1:3-4}

If you believe what you have read – that you need to be saved from the penalty of sin, that Jesus is the Son of God who died on the cross to atone for your sins, and that he was raised from the dead – you can be forgiven, reconciled with God, and enjoy eternity in Heaven.

Submit to the lordship of Jesus, and you will be saved. Salvation is that simple, and that serious. Believe, and you will be changed.

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. ^{John 14:6}

The Bible clearly teaches that faith in and submission to Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven. The truth of this is substantiated by the suffering he endured to bring salvation to humanity. In the Gospels, we learn about his anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane, the betrayal by his disciples, the rejection by his people, and his horrific suffering through scourging and crucifixion. Why would he have endured this if there had been any other way to save us from the penalty of our sins?

Jesus clearly states that he is the only way, not just a way to the Father. Faith in Jesus Christ is the only path to Heaven; all other roads lead to Hell. Trusting anything, anyone, or any religious system other than Jesus Christ is to commit spiritual suicide

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. ^{Acts 4:12}

If Jesus is the only way to Heaven, then there must be many roads leading to Hell.

Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it. ^{Matthew 7:13-14}

Below are four common paths to destruction, each characterized by the failure to make Jesus Christ the Lord over everything in your life.

First, some will end up in Hell because they are satisfied in their unbelief, lacking any desire or need for God. Prosperity, success, social acceptance, and self-sufficiency often lead to a conscious denial of the need for God. They believe they don’t need to be saved. To them, Christianity is an unnecessary waste of time.

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. ^{Ist Corinthians 1:18}

Secondly, Others mistakenly believe they are in good standing with God because they strive to live moral lives and be good people. Overestimating the good within themselves, they assume that treating others well, thinking good thoughts, and doing good deeds should be sufficient to secure a place in Heaven. They, too, are convinced that they don’t need to be saved. The word of God tells us otherwise; it is clear that reliance on one’s righteousness ends in death.

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. ^{Isaiah 64:6}

Thirdly, the next road to Hell is reliance on compliance. The religious are often taught to do something to make amends with God. They attempt to win God’s favor through actions they think will please him, such as self-righteous efforts, following religious rules and rituals, or living piously. However, in God’s eyes, these efforts are futile nonsense. Jesus railed against the Jewish religious leadership, who taught adherence to rules, rituals, sacraments, and traditions for salvation. You cannot work yourself into righteous perfection; that is why you need a savior to deliver you from being judged wanting and condemned. God desires your heart, mind, and soul, not your best efforts at religion.  

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. ^{Matthew 7:21-23}

Finally, there is a path to Hell marked by deception, evil, and treachery. It is the perversion of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by charlatans of organized religion that leads people away from Christ.

These frauds intertwine corruption, lies, and error with some element of truth as they promote heresies against the Gospel in the Bible. They conflate truth from God’s word with human philosophies, conjecture, and worldly intellect, obscuring the simplicity of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. They claim that God will bless you with prosperity, health, and happiness if you have faith and a positive attitude, ignoring the cost of discipleship. They diminish the deity of Jesus, sometimes through dramatic blasphemies like claiming he is a created being or even Satan’s brother (Mormons). These persuasive voices tell people what they want to hear, often for financial gain, and people believe, despite how absurd the message may be. Be aware that Satan sometimes carries a Bible and can lead you unknowingly into Hell.

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. ^{2nd Timothy 4:3-4}

The Bible is also clear that those who propagate lies and distortions of the word of God are cursed, and their destruction is inevitable.

But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; ^{2nd Peter 2:12}

In Christ, we find purpose and peace while looking forward to the promise of Heaven. The blessings we receive during our earthly life of faith come from our identity as children of God; knowing our lives are in the care of our Heavenly Father, who is in complete control. What follows are the main benefits Christians experience during their short time on Earth.

Peace from God.

Those who are at peace with God enjoy peace from God. 

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. ^{Romans 5:1-2}

Peace with God means being reconciled to him, no longer his enemy. Peace from God is a state of calmness, free from anxiety, filled with contentment, clarity, completeness, joy, and the confidence to live according to the truth that contradicts the chaos of the world. We experience abundant peace when we are in harmony with God’s will. By seeking God and staying close to him, his peace permeates our daily lives. This provides consistent evidence of his love, deepening our faith, and increases our reliance on him. When we immerse ourselves in his Word, pray, and keep our eyes on Jesus Christ, our souls are filled with a deep peace that only God can give.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you . . . After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. ^{1 Peter 5:6-7 & 10}

If you live only for yourself and pursue your heart’s desires with self-reliant pride, then any peace you find will be fleeting. The apostle Paul reminds us to be anxious for nothing; instead, he urges us to pray about everything.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. ^{Philippians 4:4-7}

Here, our Lord assures us that we can find peace in this life:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. ^{John 14:27}

All Things Work Together for Our Good.

It is a great comfort to know that God is in control of our lives and everything we experience. We rest confidently knowing that God ultimately uses all things for our good, even if it doesn’t seem so at the moment.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ^{Romans 8:28} 

God uses every event and circumstance – whether good, bad, or terrible – to accomplish his will for those who belong to him. His purpose is to shape us to be more like his Son, and there is no better outcome we could hope for than becoming more like Jesus Christ. Although we may not always understand the why, how, or when of what God is doing, we trust him because we belong to him, and he takes care of us. This is the comfort that God’s children enjoy. Those who have rejected Jesus are left to navigate life on their own, and not everything will ultimately work out for their own good.

Meaning & Purpose

Living for God, with the promise of eternal life in Heaven, gives us clear meaning and purpose. We are to glorify God, which means giving him weight, recognizing his significance, and making him essential in our lives and the lives of others. This involves honoring him in our words, actions, and thoughts and striving to live in loving, grateful obedience. Transcendent meaning and purpose come from serving God, rather than chasing the fleeting pleasures of this world. Living in Christ and fulfilling your God-given purpose will make your life meaningful and significant.

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light; ^{1 Peter 2:9}

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. ^{Romans 12:1-2}

Clearly, the world has nothing to offer that truly fulfills. Consider those who seem to have it all – those who have the world by the tail and have hit the heights of celebrity, wealth, and success – yet still find themselves so troubled that they put a rope around their neck and kick out the stool to find peace. It is a tragic end to the lost souls who jump to their eternal conclusion.

Mortal Death & Eternal Life

Ultimately, we all share the same physical fate; no one gets out of here alive. However, Christians need not fear death, because we who trust in God’s promises can rest in the assurance of these two truths:

First, our lives are in God’s hands, and he alone will determine when our time on Earth will end. We will not be called home to Heaven one second before God’s will allows it.

Second, we are headed to eternity with God in Heaven—a far better place than where we are now.

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. ^{John 14:2-3}

As you deepen your faith, your confidence in life after death grows more certain. This assurance provides Christians with courage and great comfort as they face their inevitable departure from this mortal life. Jesus repeatedly assures us that those who believe in him will have eternal life, and we trust what he tells us

Security in Christ

For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ^{Romans 8:38-39}

Submit to Jesus Christ, and you will be saved for eternity. We serve a faithful God who will never abandon us. Jesus himself reassures us in this beautiful verse:

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one. ^{John 10:27-30}      

Our instinct is to live self-directed and do as we please, but if the conclusion is that there must be a God, then it seems imperative to understand what that means for us individually. It could be that our instincts are wrong, that understanding what God tells us is to our dramatic benefit, and dismissal is to our tragic detriment.

On the other hand, if you believe that humanity and our world came about by chance and there is no God, then you can spend your life chasing pleasure, comfort, and security. You can follow your heart’s desires, achieve what you can, accumulate more stuff, love your family and yourself, crush your enemies, and try to live a good life (though I’m not sure why). Then comes death. You are gone, forgotten, and forever perished. What was the point? Maybe there wasn’t one, as the Atheist would say. Do you buy that?

This work presents the critically important message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The choice before us is either acceptance or rejection, and everyone will have to give an answer. Here is a beautiful one-verse summary of the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ:

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not on the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him ^{John 3:36}

My hope is that God uses this work to encourage you to come and see.

A Limited Time Offer

The time we spend on Earth is brief. The choices you make now and the person you become will determine the quality of your life for eternity. You have the chance now to accept God’s gift. But if you die in your sins before you come to your senses, it will be too late.

When you become a Christian, you become a new kind of person.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. ^{2 Corinthians 5:17}

As a child, I was well-versed in the message of salvation, and in my teens, I publicly declared my faith in Jesus Christ and was “saved.” My father and I were baptized together in a small Texas Southern Baptist church during the same evening service. That was around 1974. The foundation of my education in God’s word, laid so long ago, was instrumental in my preparation, but it wasn’t until I was in my mid-50s, 40 years later, that I felt drawn, led, or driven – however you want to put it – to turn to God. It was then that I experienced a profound change, in many ways dramatic, and finally became a new kind of person.

It was a combination of challenging circumstances that brought me to this point. My father, whom I was very close to, was terminally ill, and we knew his death was imminent. The anxious thought of losing him, a figure of stability and security in my life, along with other life pressures, heightened my primary source of anxiety and stress: a highly demanding job. I felt that my knowledge, experience, and confidence were, at best, the minimum needed to succeed. I worried that I lacked the competency to handle the role, and the workload felt overwhelming.

The pressure to perform was overwhelming, and a crippling fear bloomed inside me. This ongoing sense of failure anxiety affected every aspect of my life. At its worst, I was not able to perform at work. Fear would grip me during meetings, leaving me frozen in panic. With a pounding heart, sweaty palms, and an inability to breathe, think, or speak, I had to endure the embarrassment of excusing myself from meetings. The worry that this might cost me my job intensified my stress and anxiety, creating a vicious cycle of fear. It became clear that I couldn’t manage or cope with it on my own; self-reliance no longer carried me through the tough days.

The unexpected benefit of weakness is that God uses it to draw us closer to him. When I realized I had reached the limit of my ability to cope effectively, I turned to God. To the best of my ability, I surrendered my entire life to him, including all my challenges, insecurities, and failures. I placed my job, my role as a father and husband, my attitude, happiness, and future in his hands, and the result was astonishing.

I experienced a shift in attitude, perspective, and priorities as my desire to live in a way that pleases God became my highest priority. The issues and trials in my life continue, but I find that, with God’s help, I can now handle and navigate them effectively. I have learned that this life is a test; I expect to face an abundance of challenges and difficulties as God works to develop and mature my soul and character to be more like Christ. The growing conviction that God is in control, along with my belief that the struggles in this mortal life are insignificant compared to the eternal joy ahead, helps calm my fears and anxieties about the day’s affairs. I have learned to trust in God.

I felt his loving kindness as he comforted us through my father’s passing. I was there when Dad took his last breath, and although the separation was difficult, we found peace throughout it all. I felt his support as he established me at work, far beyond what I thought possible. Through him, I gained competence, worth, and reassurance – not just in the job but in knowing that his plan for me was the best I could hope for. He blessed my marriage with increased understanding, tolerance, and patience, along with a stronger desire to serve. Eighteen years of marriage now, and we have never been closer or more complete together.

Most importantly, I have peace knowing that all things now work for my good, and after my mortal life, I will spend eternity in Heaven. I strive to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, and I have true peace with God. I now understand and experience the often-repeated paradox in the Bible: “Whoever wishes to keep his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake will keep it.” I am grateful that God gave me the time to reach this point. My 40 years of wandering in the wilderness had come to an end. 

As I mature in my faith, I see self-serving attitudes fading away, replaced by a resolute desire to please God. This transformation is not instantaneous; it unfolds throughout your life as you pursue God and he works to make you more like Christ in motives, thoughts, and behavior.

As you immerse yourself in God’s word and absorb truth from sound teachers and fellow believers, he opens your eyes to understand what is right and proper while convicting you of what is wrong and unacceptable. Actively pursue a relationship with Jesus Christ, and you will experience transformation. Undoubtedly, you will look back in disbelief at what you once sought in the world, how you lived your life, how you treated others, and what you thought was acceptable.

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations (various trials); Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work (effect), that ye may be perfect and entire (complete), wanting (lacking) nothing. ^{James 1:2-4}

Life with Christ isn’t free of trouble. You’ll still face trials that often cause emotional or physical pain, misery, grief, or suffering. The difference is attitude, resolve, and response will be rooted in Christian principles and character.

God tests us with difficult times to build endurance and strengthen our faith. Testing fosters maturity and shapes us to be more like Christ. Trials humble us, deepen our reliance on God, and reveal the state of our faith. The true depth of an untested Christian’s conviction is often unknown, even to themselves. Untested faith may be no faith at all, but faith that has endured and blossomed in adversity is a very precious thing to possess.

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. ^{Job 23:10}

James encourages us to face life’s trials with calm, confident competence, steady in the face of challenges. We can do this when we trust that God is in control and that he works everything together for our ultimate good. With him, we can successfully navigate trials and become a strong testimony to his perfect will. Conversely, a person without faith is often driven by emotions like anger, fear, or distrust. They tend to respond with self-serving, expedient solutions that prioritize their own interests.

We trust that our heavenly Father will lead and protect us, allowing us to face each day with joy and gratitude. Those who live without Christ are left to navigate life on their own. For them, enduring trials may help build character, but there is no benefit beyond the grave. For Christians, trials provide opportunities to serve God and demonstrate our peace through faith in Christ to the world.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. ^{John 16:33}

The commandments God gave Moses in the Old Testament, along with more than 600 other rules and regulations, govern Jewish conduct. In Judaism, following these laws shows how the chosen people are expected to behave. Notably, Jews are less concerned with the punishment of eternal damnation; instead, they focus on their actions in this life rather than the afterlife. There is no requirement of perfect righteousness to enter what they consider Heaven; they just need to do their best.

In contrast, Christianity provides a clearer understanding of what is necessary to avoid Hell and enter Heaven. Through the new covenant with God (the New Testament), we learn that no one is capable of obeying all the commandments all the time; therefore, we depend on Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross, which provides forgiveness of sins, credits his righteousness to believers, and justifies them before God.

The primary commandments guiding our behavior are summarized here, but it’s important to understand that the full range of commandments and teachings extends beyond what is shown. Make reading the word of God a daily priority to deepen your understanding of his will and what he expects from you.

Number One – Love God

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.  ^{Mark 12:30}

The first and most important commandment clearly tells us to love God above all else. We are called to love him fully, with our whole being, putting him before everything else.

The word “love” can mean many things. In this context, it refers to love expressed through will, actions, dedication, commitment, and purpose. It comes from our gratitude for his mercy (the forgiveness of sins) and his saving grace, which make us heirs to his kingdom (our justification), as well as our humble respect (the fear of God) for who he is. Loving God in this way results in obedience to his will; if you love God, you will keep his commandments. This love is not based on feelings, friendship, or adherence to religious rituals.

It is crucial to understand that God takes this commandment seriously. It is a directive, not a suggestion. In the verse below, Moses tells the Jews about God’s intolerance toward those who reject his commands and love other gods (idols) of the world.

Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you; (For the Lord thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the Lord thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth. ^{Deuteronomy 6:14-15}

Solomon tells us in Proverbs, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” While fear is a starting point, it is through love that wisdom is fully realized. Those who love God and obey his commands will immerse themselves in his word, remain in his presence, and discover his wisdom.

Number Two – Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. ^{Matthew 22:39}

The second greatest commandment is to love others as we love ourselves. Unlike our love of obedience to our Heavenly Father, this commandment emphasizes love as an act of service. We are called to love others as Jesus loved us. This includes qualities such as patience, tolerance, humility, service, support, encouragement, and edification. It is free from envy, coveting, arrogance, and self-serving attitudes.

This love isn’t just an emotion; it’s shown through our attitude, actions, and deeds. We’re not asked to like others, but to love them! When we interact with others, including those we might see as enemies, we should strive to treat them as Jesus would. Always remember to ask yourself, “What would Jesus do?”

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. ^{John 15:12}

No Idolatry

Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. ^{Exodus 20:3-6}

Idolatry is defined as loving anything more than God. The priorities we establish in our lives reveal what we idolize, and the things we idolize are those we ultimately serve. If you prioritize money, power, career, pleasure, sex, status, family, sports, entertainment, material possessions, or even religion above God, then those become your idols. Enjoy God’s blessings, but remember to serve only him, and beware of the temptation to turn good things in life into evil, sinful pursuits.

Do Not Commit Adultery

Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. ^{Matthew 5:27-28}

Lust was a stumbling block for David, Samson, and many others in the Bible. Adultery is common today, and it has wrecked many lives. Lust remains one of Satan’s most powerful tools to lead us astray.

Do Not Take the Lord’s Name in Vain

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. ^{Exodus 20:7}

If there is a proper fear of God, this is not a problem. Using his name as an expletive or in any disrespectful or irreverent way dishonors and trivializes him. It is interesting to notice that for thousands of years, humanity has often disparaged God’s name. The long-standing tendency to profane his name is a sad confirmation of his existence and shows that society, as a whole, has no respect for or fear of God.d.

Do Not Murder, Steal, or Lie

Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. ^{Exodus 20:13 & 15-16}

This is basic stuff. We learned it in kindergarten, except for the murder part—we learned about that later, by watching TV. Although these commands should be simple to follow, they are broken every day.

Do Not Covet

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s. ^{Exodus 20:17}

To covet means to have a strong, wrongful desire to possess something. Covetousness stems from the motives, desires, and attractions of the heart. It represents an excessive love that elevates good things to the status of ultimate things. In this sense, covetousness is a form of idolatry because it directs our desires toward things other than God. This commandment emphasizes that we should love the Lord our God above everything else.

Coveting is the root of many sins. Adultery, lying, stealing, and even murder are often caused by covetousness. You cannot truly love your neighbors if you desire what they have. Overcoming covetousness requires a change of heart, which can only happen through the help of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, pray for his assistance in freeing you from worldly desires and strive for holiness; otherwise, your life may be ruined.

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. ^{James 1:14-15}