Many Christians lack the joy and assurance of their salvation because they will not take God at His word. They do not accept at face value what He says, but rely on their personal feelings instead of on the Scriptures.

Bible teacher H. A. Ironside related a personal experience that helps us understand the importance of believing the Word of God. After he had read to a woman some passages about trusting Christ, she said, "Well, I am trying to believe."

"Trying to believe whom?" asked Ironside. "It is God who has spoken in His Word. Are you saying you're trying to believe Him?"

Immediately she saw the light and exclaimed, "Oh, I didn't realize what I was saying. Yes, I do believe what God has declared." At last her heart found rest.

If you have placed your trust in the Lord Jesus, stop worrying about your salvation. God has done His part. Believe what the Bible says, and claim as your very own the new life that has been given you through faith in Christ. John 1:12 promises, "As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name." Take God at His word. Then you too will have a know-so salvation.  — Richard De Haan