“The work of salvation means that in your real life things are dramatically changed. You no longer look at things in the same way. Your desires are new and the old things have lost their power to attract you. If you are born again, the Spirit of God makes the change very evident in your real life and thought. It is this complete and amazing change that is the very evidence that you are saved” (Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest).

I believe that none of us are saved by works. It is grace through faith alone that saves us. But I also believe that saving faith always manifests itself by fruit and works. The works are the proof of that saving faith.

Hopefully, you and I are being transformed day by day into the likeness of Jesus and less like the insecure, anxious, and selfish people we used to be before we met Jesus.

If my life shows no evidence of the indwelling Spirit of God and my actions never change day after day and I keep chasing after the old sinful ways (with no desire to do any differently), you have a right to question my salvation. There should be a change at some point, no matter how small or gradual.

I’m thankful that God who began this good work in me will see it through. I’m thankful I can’t go back to the old man I used to be — even if I wanted to go back — because the old man is dead and gone.

May our lives be the testimony that attracts others to want to know this God who can save and change anybody anywhere at any time.