“Has God really forgiven me for my sin?”
You can be confident that God has truly forgiven you because God says so. God is trustworthy. Therefore, what He declares and promises is also true. God says that He will completely forgive you if you trust and receive Jesus to be your Lord and Savior.
[“Reflect on God’s Majesty” to know that He is trustworthy.]
Here are the words of God:
“But to all who have received him—those who believe in his name —he has given the right to become God’s children —children not born by human parents or by human desire or a husband’s decision, but by God.” (John 1:12)
“Because if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)
“Where your sins are great, God’s grace is even greater.” (Romans 5:20-21)
[Learn more about “How to Experience God’s Forgiveness“]
“Should I feel differently?”
Salvation depends on your sincere faith in Jesus and not on feelings or experience (John 1:12). Experiences vary—some feel dramatic shifts, others notice nothing at first. For some, trusting Jesus is not an event but a gradual process.
Feelings come and go, but God’s promise stands firm. Over time, you’ll see changes and growth as you get to know Jesus better.
God promises that His Holy Spirit will dwell in you and give you new life from the moment you receive Jesus Christ into your life to make Him your Lord and Savior (Ephesians 1:13-14). The Holy Spirit assures your heart that you’re God’s child (Romans 8:16).
[Learn more about “The Holy Spirit“]
“How do I know that I am a Christian?”
The Bible (God’s Word) affirms that your sincere decision to trust Jesus as your Lord and Savior started your new life with Him. The Bible also gives three clear ways to confirm that Christ is now truly in you.
Your new life with Jesus is a marathon—not a quick sprint. It’s a life-long journey.
You’ll have wins and losses, good days and tough ones, times of fast progress and moments when you feel stuck or take steps backward. You may struggle with old sins or not always feel or act like a Christian. But your relationship with God remains secure—like a marriage vow that endures beyond wedding-day joy.
[Learn more about How to Know for Sure You Are a Christian.]
More Resource
Your Questions?
If you have questions, use the box below. I will respond to you in Messages. —Pastor Jon