I recently heard a preacher say that salvation is 99% Jesus Christ but 1% us. I have heard this before. God does everything necessary for salvation (99%) but we must come, confess, repent, etc. (1%) to accomplish the last part of salvation. Do you agree? Although I know that theologically this is ridiculous (how could I ever add to Jesus' complete work on the cross!!?), I must admit that this theory appeals to me. I know that I can’t earn my own salvation in any way, but I live my life many times as if it were up to me to maintain that salvation (how do you maintain a gift after all anyway? Then it is no longer a gift!). Again, theologically, I know that I can’t lose my salvation, but I think at times that God is somehow more pleased with me when I perform well and less pleased when I fail. As a teenager, I cringed under the definition of grace. I thought it was so unfair! I was an obedient, good, well mannered teenager, who didn’t rebel against her parents like other teenagers I knew. I thought it was unfair that God gave them the same grace and forgiveness as a believer that he gave me. How arrogant and wrong I was!
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Is it okay to ask God “why”? I am very familiar with the belief that asking God “why” indicates a lack of faith and trust. It shouldn’t be allowed and worse, if you do ask, then you should be condemned or ostracized by others. I couldn’t disagree more. Are you questioning your suffering right now? Are you questioning the pain? I believe it is okay to ask God the big “why” questions. He certainly is big enough and secure enough as God to handle your doubts. I do caution you though. Be on guard as to where the questioning leads. Does it lead towards God or away from Him? |
Dana, Founder/CEO of BeStrong Ministries, desires to share the hope of the Gospel with everyone. Why a Blog?I debated about writing a Blog for some time. I am not anyone special, who has something new to say. However, I remembered the numerous times I was encouraged by the stories and testimonies of others. My desire is to also encourage or strengthen others by how the Lord has brought me through difficult times. I pray He strengthens you! Archives
May 2023
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