Conversion signifies change from one state to another or a change in character, form or function. It comes from the Latin conversio which means "a complete change."
Restored times two
Recently, I had the opportunity to restore a relationship with someone after a falling out. The young woman I met with was one of the teenagers that had lived at our house for a short time. Things had become tough and we parted ways...for a while. She wanted to make things right so we met for coffee. We had a great conversation.
On my way to meet with her, I prayed about the time together. I asked God what his plan was for the meeting. An interesting question came to mind, "Do you know Jesus or do you just know about him?"
So during our conversation I asked this young woman that question. This led to a conversation about who Jesus is. I explained that God desires to give us life and peace but that we are all by nature separated from God. This separation is because of sin...we all do it. We sense this separation and every one of us attempts to reach God in our own way. None of it works. God provides the only way - Jesus. Everyone can come to God as a result of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. No exclusiveness here! He paid the penalty for our sin and bridged the gap between God and people. How do we get in? Simple! Receive Jesus by personal invitation. How? Follow these steps:
- Admit that you need help - this really means that you agree with God that you're a sinner
- Be willing to turn (literally making a u-turn) from your sins
- Believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose from the grave
- Invite Jesus through a simple prayer to come into your life and take control of it through the Holy Spirit.
So, she prayed the simple prayer found in Billy Graham's "Steps to Peace with God":
"Dear Lord Jesus,
I know that I am a sinner and need your forgiveness. I believe that you died for my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I now invite you to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow you as Lord and Savior.
In Jesus' name, Amen."
How amazing to be part of this change from one state to another. Have you ever experienced it? Will you share your story here?
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