She said in her heart,
"I Want to be Saved"

What exactly does it mean to be saved? To answer that question, let’s first determine what it does NOT mean. To be saved does NOT mean:

• You will live a life of tranquility and never go through any difficulties
“…Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33 NLT

• You can live any way you want because you’ve secured your home in Heaven
“Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death?” - Romans 6:1-3

• You can never have any fun again
“I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”- John 10:10 NLT

Now that we’ve clarified what it does not mean, let’s talk about what it does mean. Saved is defined as being rescued or delivered from the penalty of sin. Simply stated, to be saved is to believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose from the dead.

So often with religion, we go along with whatever is the flavor of the day, sounds good or worse, pick and choose the pieces we like. However, there is only one way to heaven.

“Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” - John 14:6 NKJV

Although we have all sinned and don’t deserve a place in Heaven, God has made it possible for us to live eternally with Him in Heaven.

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” - Romans 3:23 NLT

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 6:23 NLT

And all that’s required is to believe and accept His gift.

Heaven's Shoe Store receipt Quite simply, this receipt illustrates the transaction that has taken place.

Jesus Christ died a substitutionary death on the cross and rose from the dead to pay the penalty for our sins and purchase a place for us in heaven.

“...Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.” - 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 NLT

“For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.”- 2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT

Are you ready to accept the gift and declare I want to be saved? Gift acceptance instructions are simple, “if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” - Romans 10:9 NLT

Still not convinced? Take a stroll down the Romans Road for more details.

Becoming a Christian
If you have made the decision to accept the gift of Jesus Christ and embark upon this Christian journey, by saying ‘I want to be saved”, let me be the first to congratulate you on the best decision you could have ever made. Welcome to the family!

The first step is to confirm you understand that Christ alone is the only way to heaven. There is nothing you can do to save yourself, just believe and accept what Christ has already done. Yes. it’s that simple, just believe.

Next, pray a prayer of faith to indicate your new found trust in Jesus Christ. Here is a suggested prayer.

Dear God,
I want to be saved. I know that I have sinned and done things that were not pleasing in your sight. I understand because of my sins, I deserve death, but because of your love for me you sent your Son (Jesus Christ) to die in my place. I believe He died for me and rose from the dead to give me eternal life. I admit I am ready to trust Jesus Christ alone to forgive me of my sins and be the Lord of my life. In Jesus name, Amen.

Congratualtions! with these simple steps, you have transitioned from I want to be saved to I AM SAVED!

Know that becoming a Christian does not mean your life will be perfect and free from trials, in fact quite the opposite is likely. However, one thing you can know for sure from this day forward, is that you now have a Savior that will never leave you. No matter what happens, know that God is all powerful and always in control of any situation you may encounter.

“I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” - Hebrews 13:5 NLT

Becoming a Christian is a journey that is not intended to be traveled alone. In fact that’s why there is a body of believers to help and encourage you along the way. Find a Bible believing church where you can get involved and grow. This is critical to your spiritual growth.

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” - Hebrews 10:25 NLT

Study the Bible and learn to pray to strengthen your faith and develop a relationship with Christ.

Again, Welcome to the Family! Below are resources to help you as you begin your journey.