Unwrapping the Gift of Salvation: A Journey of Faith

Welcome to Gospel Diary Weekly Devotion. Presented by Pastor Chris S. Akpan. Week 2, October 2024.

Bible Verse: 

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God." - Ephesians 2:8 (NKJV)

Bible Reading:

Romans 5:1-11 (NKJV)

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.

John 3:1-21 (NKJV)

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with Him."

Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?"

Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit."

Testimony:

"Before I knew Christ, I felt empty and lost. But when I surrendered my life to Him, I experienced an overwhelming sense of peace and purpose. Salvation is more than just a doctrine; it's a life-transforming reality!" - Brother Emmanuel.

Practical Tips:

1. Reflect on your salvation experience and express gratitude to God.

2. Share the Gospel with someone who needs to hear it.

3. Meditate on Ephesians 2:8, allowing its truth to deepen your faith.

Word of Encouragement:

"Salvation is not just an event; it's a journey of intimacy with God. As you walk with Him, His love and grace will continually transform and empower you." - Pastor Chris S. Akpan

Declaring Powerful Words:

"I am redeemed and forgiven through Jesus' blood."

"I have eternal life and abundant grace."

"I will share the Good News with boldness and compassion."

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for saving me by Your grace. Help me to share this gift with others and live a life that honors Your love.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Mental Health Meditation for the Week:

Finding Peace in Tribulations.

Reflect on Romans 5:3-5. How can you find joy and perseverance in challenging times?

1. Identify one area where you're struggling.

2. Pray for God's peace to surround you.

3. Focus on His love and grace.

Remember, salvation brings inner peace, and with Christ, you can face any tribulation.

Reflection Question:

What does salvation mean to you personally?

Action Step:

Share your salvation testimony with someone this week.

Recommended Reading:

- Romans 3:24-25

- 1 John 5:11-13.

Stay blessed, and remember: Salvation is a gift; share it with someone today!