Posted on 12/01/2014 10:11:43 PM PST by Salvation
Well, I never heard such a thing. (On the other hand, he did grow up in Mexico, where one hears of such a thing.)
The sin of presumption is more a matter of being convinced -- arrogantly -- that one has gained guaranteed admission to heaven and is no longer in need of God's Mercy (as many Protestants are).
Thanks for posting this, Salvation! I have been dealing with anxiety for the last few months. Especially the “what ifs” in life and always worrying about the future instead of taking it day to day. Opening the Bible and reading scripture (and praying) have helped tremendously!
Thanks for your testimony.
My point is that when you get into industrial-grade anxiety and mental agitation (clinically significant symptomatology) the prayers and scripture reading aren't necessarily going to result in a cessation or even subjective easing of symptoms, any more than they will necessarily cure cancer or a broken arm. In fact, just try making it through a prayer in the middle of a panic attack -- can't be done.
But by all means continue with the prayers and readings -- I do when I can. But also be aware it isn't always God's will that your suffering be alleviated. In some cases it might amount to your own cross to bear. I do believe that in most instances God doesn't subject us to more suffering than we can bear.
OK. Now I see where the error is.
There's not a born again believer who thinks that just because they are sure of their salvation that they don't need God's mercy.
We realize that anything we have at all is a result of God's mercy. Not only our salvation, but the assurance of it as well.
My assurance of salvation is based on the promises of God that HE gave to us.
Taking Him at His word is not presumption, but faith.
I’m saved and secure in that not because I think so, not because I think I deserve it for any reason, but because HE promised that if I believe Him, then just like Abraham, my faith is counted to me as righteousness.
He cannot lie. His word is true and sure. I can have confidence on THAT basis, and none other.
But a typical Protestant doesn't believe Him. He believes some parts but not others. For example, you don't believe that the Holy Eucharist saves, despite His words. You have that laughable doctrine that salvation is by faith alone, even though the Holy Scripture says the opposite in the Second Chapter of James. You, collectively, are cafeteria Christians.
So true. Thanks for the ping.
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