“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation.

When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:13-14

An advertisement appeared on my kitchen counter, warning, “Think you’re safe from identity thieves?”

The pamphlet was from a company that guarantees — but not completely — to protect one’s identity.

The business made sure to put in fine print, however, the following waiver: No one can prevent all identity theft or prevent all cybercrime. (The company is LIFELOCK by Norton, an antivirus software firm.)

We Know Whom We Are in Christ

Suddenly, I thought of how it is possible to lose our identity in this life, yet know exactly who we are in Christ Jesus. The Word says we are sealed for redemption when we believe — unless we don’t believe. I don’t see any ifs, ands, buts or maybes in this guarantee, do you?

What is the mark we receive? God’s Holy Spirit who identifies to whom we belong for all eternity.

Sometimes We May Doubt Salvation

So what causes us to doubt our salvation? I say it is not knowing the Word, misinterpreting it or just not trusting what God has to say. His Word is truth. End of discussion.

I have struggled at times concerning the guarantee of my salvation because of the following:

• I misinterpreted (misunderstood) what the Word said about Salvation. (2 Timothy 2:14-15)

• I allowed trials in my life to define me. (John 16:33)

• I considered rejection from others as God’s rejection. (Romans 8:31-39)

• I allowed the devil to condemn me. (Romans 8:1)

Now that I understand and believe God’s promises, I am not so easily “unpersuaded” concerning His “guarantee.” There are no waivers in fine print in God’s Word. Our salvation in Christ is 100%. And with His own blood, He has guaranteed it.

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your Holy Spirit who identifies us eternally and irrevocably as part of the family of God.

His Abider in Christ,

~Mary Ahlborn