Symptoms Of Salvation

The Bible teaches that genuine salvation will evidence itself in two ways.  First, there will be the inward confirmation of the Holy Spirit that we are the Children of God (Romans 8:16).  Second, there will be the outward evidence of a changed life (2 Corinthians 5:17).  Salvation evidences itself in indicators that all point to a changed life.
 
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Paul talked about three of those indicators.  Think of them as signs or even symptoms of salvation.  Here they are:

• - Rejoice always
• - Pray without ceasing
• - In everything give thanks
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Genuine salvation takes a person from complaining to rejoicing.  It moves a person from worrying to praying.  And it transforms the heart from an attitude of ingratitude to thankfulness.  Take a quick assessment of your life right now.  On a scale of 1 – 10, determine how you are doing with rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks.

We have so many reasons to be thankful.  Let me just remind you of three reasons that are true for every believer no matter what your personal circumstances may be:

1)  Our blessings outnumber our problems

 Try counting your blessings sometime and you will realize they far outnumber your problems.

2)  Our blessings outweigh our problems

If you were to put them on a scale you would find that your problems are relatively light in comparison to the sheer weight and number of your blessings.

3)  Our blessings will outlast our problems

The problems of this life are temporary, but the blessings of God are eternal.

Be sure to evidence the symptoms of salvation this Thanksgiving season.  Speaking of giving thanks, Sheri and I are so thankful for you – our River of Life family!  We are so thankful for the love and unity that exists in the church.  From our family to you and yours, Happy Thanksgiving! 

 Pastor Todd Weston