And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness, quietness, and assurance for ever. (Isaiah 32:17, KJV)
There are times during a round of golf when we seek assurance that the shot we are attempting will bring us a good result. Do I take the higher risk shot that might lead to a birdie, but could also end up with bogey or worse? Or do I hit the safe shot, where I might be assured of a par?
Sometimes in life, we have trouble balancing school or work, along with family, loved ones, friends. We also want to take time to relax, play golf, or just have fun. But how do we know we’re getting the balance right? We ask the Lord for guidance, assuring us that we’re on the right track.
But assurance in earthly matters is not always granted. Sometimes we must function in the best wisdom God has given us. That is enough.
This won’t suffice, though, when it comes to salvation. There we need full assurance. And wonderfully, the Savior has promised that those who believe in him will not perish but have everlasting life. This is an assurance from our Redeemer.
So why do Christians sometimes lack assurance? Here are a few examples:
Succumbing to temptation. If you are continually being tempted, it will probably be difficult to feel an assurance of being saved by the Lord.
Disobedience. Probably the most obvious reason for lacking assurance is disobedience. Assurance is the reward for obedience: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22).
Guilt. Some people lack assurance because they cannot accept forgiveness.
Ignorance. Many people lack assurance because they do not understand that Jesus Christ is their salvation.
Uncertainty. Some Christians lack assurance because they don’t know the time of their salvation. “I have written to you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that you will have eternal life” (1 John 5:13). If you can’t pinpoint a time when you surrendered your heart to Jesus, now may be the time!
I’m sure there are many more examples of reasons some may lack assurance. In our jobs, we look for assurance and security from our boss; in our marriages, we desire love and assurance from our spouse; on the golf course, we seek assurance from our golfing buddies, and also assurance from our own ability. But above all these, we have faith in Jesus Christ and look to him for assurance of eternal life.
—
Dereck Wong with John Tilley
July 13, 2015
Copyright 2015 Links Players International
The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.