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The Bible assures us that if we believe in Jesus, we will be saved. The "prayer of salvation" is the most important prayer we will ever pray. When we are ready to become a Christian, we are ready to have our first real conversation with God! When we pray the prayer of salvation, we are letting God know we believe God’s Word is true. By the faith God has given us, we choose to believe in Him. So, when we pray, asking God for the gift of salvation, we're exercising our free will to acknowledge that we believe in Him. That demonstration of faith pleases God because we have freely chosen to know Him. Prayer of Salvation - Five Simples Steps. 1. Confess your sins: Father God, I’m a sinner. 2. Repent of your sins: I’m sorry for my sins. 3. Ask forgiveness for your sins: Please forgive me for my sins. 4. Invite Jesus into your life: I want Jesus Christ to be my personal Savior. 5. Ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit: Fill me with your Spirit so I can live by Your power. Now pray this prayer with us: "Dear God, I'm a sinner. I'm sorry for my sins. Forgive me of my sins. I want Jesus Christ to be my Savior. I want to be filled with your Holy Spirit so I may live my life with Your power. In Jesus' name, Amen." #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

Arminianism is the doctrine that "man" has the free will to choose salvation, and can also lose salvation. It is the work of God and man co-laboring to make salvation clear and secure. For as a man has total "free will" to choose salvation, he also has total "free will" to lose his salvation. It becomes a battle of the wills, God's wills versus man's will, or both working together. Calvinism, on the other hand, teaches "once saved, always saved". There are some limitations regarding this doctrine, on the topic of whether salvation is only granted to the "elect" or is it offered to all who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. It can possibly become an issue of exclusion, rather than inclusion. Could these two doctrines possibly work together for the good of those who can, and will be saved without changing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and its ordinance? What do you think? #andyfernandez #iamministries

When studying Salvation, it is important to consider all scripture before concluding whether a "Christian" can lose or forfeit their salvation. It is scripturally clear that God has completed the sacrifice for which salvation is granted, for all of God's work is perfect and complete. But, the question still arises whether Christians can lose their salvation? It is blasphemy to abuse the sacrifice of the cross, and belittle the grace for which we all have been saved by continuing to live in self-indulgence and sin. For, a "genuine" Christian, resembles the work of God's hands, His mercy, His love, His humility, His character, His likeness, His image, and of course His Spirit. When considering this issue, we must understand fully that a "Christian" is one who believes in his heart and confesses with his mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord (governor, ruler, king) and that he resurrected from the dead (Romans 8). This confession is not simply a dictation, or a verbal declaration, for even demons, will confess this, but an internal working of faith which has been proportioned by God, working through the circumcised heart of a believer. If in truth, "Jesus Faith", has settled within the heart of a believer, God and angels rejoice and the Holy Spirit immerses the believer in his truth. This eternal work shall not be damned by doctrine, but fulfilled by the truth. For a Christian, who has been filled with the Holy Spirit, will bear the fruits of the Spirit. This is denoted in the word "fellow" or "fellowship". Throughout scripture, we can see that God calls us "fellow workers", or that we may have "fellowship" with him or other believers. This word is rich in depicting the importance of remaining in Christ, for God sees our divine relationship, through the scope of us remaining in fellowship with him. For a "true" Christian is one who has forfeited his worldly relationship, for a divine one. This, in turn, will assure and secure his eternal reward. You can not have true fellowship with God, and still, come out looking and acting like the world. But, of course, this is finally revealed through time, and God will certainly judge the thoughts of the heart. Food for thought, What is the difference between a sheep and a goat? Matthew 25:31-46 31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ 41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ 44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ 45 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ 46 “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

Consider the agonizing force of a loving relationship ending in divorce. The separation of a lost child, in a highly-populated area, where its parents just realized that their child is nowhere to be found. How about, the complete loss of a loved one, when you are granted one last opportunity to see their face before lowering them to their rest. This is a minimal analogy of what it could have possibly felt like when Adam committed sin, and all humanity was separated from God. For the Bible teaches us, that we all have fallen short of the Glory of God, and that because of our depravity we are separated from him. But, how beautiful is it to know, that God is not only holy but forgiving. Reconciliation is the complete act of bonding that was severed. God is a loving father who is waiting for his prodigal sons to return, he awaits the day, for which man will once again acknowledge the sacrifice for which he died. For Christ alone, "elected" to die, so that we may be eternally reconciled to the father and our rightful relationship with him can be completely restored. For in biblical reconciliation there is complete healing, complete hope, and complete love for which God is pleased and heaven rejoices because the father's children have returned. Thank you for the blood of Jesus. #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

It is very clear, that in scripture there was a messenger by the name of John (which in Hebrew means grace), it was prophesied about John, that he would be a forerunner of the anointed one (Messiah). His purpose as stated in scripture is to make straight the path, for the coming of our Savior. His message is clear "repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand". In order for individuals to recognize, and see the Kingdom at work through Christ, they must be spiritually circumcised. There must be an acknowledgment of sin, in order to be saved from sin. If sin (separation from God) is not recognized, then we fool ourselves to believe that we are closer to God than we really are. The "Lordship Salvation" anomaly is a great title for something which is fundamentally clear in scripture, we receive Jesus Christ as our Lord (governor, ruler, king) so that we may be saved from the ruling power of sin. Repentance is a fundamental element in receiving salvation, and can not be substituted for reasoning, or dictation. For in everything that is alive - bears fruit, is animated, and is in motion. To say that faith without fruits is acceptable is like saying let's plant a tree but hope that nothing grows!!! There is life in everything God births, so if you claim to have faith, then the fruits of God's work is revealed. James said it best "tell me about your faith, and I will show you my work, for faith without work is dead". For faith, is hope in action! #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

1 John 4:19 "We love because he first loved us." These are the words that speak to me when considering the "Divine Election". When the Lord orchestrated his creation and lavished it with beauty, he took into account man. For in the womb he weaved our sinews together and gave us a name (purpose). He created all things, that we may be fruitful and multiply, and reveal his awesome love. For in doing so, he predestined us to be made into the image and likeness of his Son. When considering the size of his creation, it reminds me of how small we are, in the scope and size of his throne. But yet, he considers us, the apple of his eyes? This unconditional, unmerited favor (grace), reveals a side of God that is too immense to fathom. Electing to write our names in the Book of Life, and granting us the opportunity to be seated for eternity around his throne is an eternal honor which no human being is worthy of, yet, he bestows his election. For God, himself said "I show mercy, to whom I desire to show mercy to", this truth reveals a side of God that reflects his sovereign right to choose, the way he desires, to whom he desires, with no apology. For we did nothing to attain his divine mercy, nor can we do anything to hold God accountable for a debt, but received all things because of his divine love. Knowing that God has adopted me into the circle of his righteous family and that he predestined me to live out my call, gives me a sense of unmerited comfort. For no words are more perfect than: Romans 8: 28-30 "28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified." #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

What a wonderful thought, that in the original Hebrew text the name "Jesus" is defined as "God Saves". Whenever we consider the question, "why are names so important in scripture?" We learn that culturally, and "biblically" God used names to reveal the purpose, destiny, character, and action of an individual or system. Names are very important in the context of scripture and should be taken at face value. God always has a tendency to change the names of individuals who are in transition (a Hebrew) with God. In the context of this question, we learn that Jesus's name was divinely in line with his eternal purpose. Take for example the word "salvation", Jesus himself, according to the purpose of God, was to bring about a final act, for which humanity and its corrupt condition will be "delivered" or freed from the captivity or peril, of sin. It is an act of rescue. When considering the word "deliverance", this word is synonymous with removing the stronghold or restraint, of sin which limits man's potential to thrive in a loving relationship with God. In both God delivers and saves man from his moral depravity, and inability to live and choose righteously. These words and acts of "heroism" are one, in the same. #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

For God optioned to reveal his eternal forgiveness toward us so that we can understand the magnitude of our own corrupted condition and his vast salvation. Throughout generations, we learn that history has a tendency to repeat itself. It is the same with all human beings, if left to sought things out on our own, we will be in an unending broken record, in a vicious cycle of immorality, corruption, and sin (separation from God). This condition literally restrains us from ever being able to live at peace with God, with man, and with thyself. The words "forgive, as you have been forgiven" comes to mind when reflecting on this question, and God's immense love for me. For in the nature of my continual sin (separation from God) I was disabled from making and living righteously or ever living for my eternal purpose. I was limited, imprisoned, and in need of help, regarding my moral decisions and corrupt lifestyle. For God's eternal mercy, and unmerited favor reached down and rescued my sinking soul. This depravity and unconditional ruin was in need of a Savior, and that is why I can sing today "What can wash away my sin......Nothing but the blood of Jesus, What can make me whole again.......Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow......that makes me white as snow..........There's no other fount I know..........Nothing but the blood of Jesus". Thank you, Jesus. :) #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

"Creation vs. Theory of Evolution", this battle has been the topic of controversy for centuries. It is a topic that has more questions than answers for those who are analytically inclined and love the scientific method rather than truth. For in this dialog, one must understand again that science was designed to complement truth, rather than truth complementing science. It's like the question, which came first, the "chicken or the egg?". For the intricate design of man, his will, this thought, his intellect, his image, his likeness, his abilities, his skills, his design, and self-consciousness is certainly complex to comprehend when looking at it from a micro-scope, but when considering him through the lens of the macro-scope it is sincerely simple. For scripture is clear, that our God is a God of order, in the sinews of the helix DNA, the intricate organelles within cells, the signature of life embedded within each protein - we learn that man and this universe is a perfect and symphonic design that chance, nor random chaotic opportunity can explain nor fathom. For the lens of the microscope will declare the carpentry work of a master carpenter, and the architecture of a master architect. For even discussing the theories of evolution, thermodynamics, and even biology needs to have a sense of order to explain and dictate. For faith is beyond reason, and as the scripture states "Now (today) faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2This is what the ancients were commended for. 3By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." Another truth Colossians 1:16-: "For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.". If we take this truth, at face value, scientist can then explain why the universe is such a perfect image designed by a perfect order and a perfect painter. Theories are made up of standards of rules which can be in the present and future disproven. But, truth is unchanging and unveiling. #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

Decisions, for each day I am reminded that we are a by-product of our decisions. For scripture states "Today you have the right to 'choose' life or death." If ever, we as human beings had an opportunity to consider our eternal destiny it is now (today). For each day we make decisions regarding our future, our children, our vocations, our families, our marriages, our food, our insurance policies, and even our bank accounts. How important is it to consider these finite things, without ever considering those things which are eternal and infinite. For everyone who chooses life over death, Christ over material gain, truth rather than self philosophy, and love over hate have a wonderful opportunity to invest in their eternal destiny. Knowing, and resting on the trustworthy statement in scripture that says "For anyone who believes in their heart and confesses with their mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, and resurrected from the dead shall be saved". For securing your resurrection in Christ, is as important, as life itself. For there is an appointed reward for those who acknowledge their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Imagine a place of pure splendor, majesty, righteous government, where the abundance of life (not materialistic gain), the joy of the heart, the purity of soul, the everlasting harmony of God and man, and where peace shall reign far from disease, hurt, pain, sorrow, or illness exist and dwells. For in the eternal presence of God, there is an abundance of life and joy. Could you see yourself there, would you see yourself there, and could you choose to be there. So choose. Food for thought; "It is better to live life believing there is a God, and later find out that there was none, then to live life believing there is no God, and later finding out there was one!!" This is not based on scripture but found it to be trustworthy of reflecting on. :) #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

"It is finished", these were the Last Words of our Savior before his incredible resurrection. There is no other plan, no other solution, no other resolution other than to come to the full knowledge and acceptance of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For it is impossible to please God, or even see God, let alone dwell in the presence of God without acknowledging his Son. For scripture is clear in John 14: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me". It is the duty of the Church, with the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, to reveal the grace and beauty of our Savior to every citizen of this globe. For without Christ, man's eternal future is dark, gloomy, and certainly painful. To understand the magnitude of the eternal conditions of man, one must not compromise what is clear, and that is, that anyone who does not accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will be completely separated from the presence of God. For we can try to explain sheoul, death, grave, Hades, and hell to believers and unbelievers, but one thing is certain there is no limbo, no purgatory, and no resting place for the guilty who belittled the Son of God and his sacrifice. We are either eternally blessed, or eternally damned, for the Son of God can no longer suffer again, nor can he be sacrificed again. To live in Christ is total gain, but to die without him is totally loss. Just imagine being totally lost for eternity........... #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries

There is a sense, that time, we as human beings have a tendency to overlook, overreact, and over-analyze situations in life which eventually leads to our own understanding. We have a tendency to want to know all, explain all, and master all, but when dealing with the Word of God (truth) and faith, we need to submit to its authoritative power. There are things that will never be known, things which God himself leaves to "mystify" his sovereignty. How could one believe in someone so predictable? For, to try to understand God, we try to understand man, but "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?". This statement reveals that God's ways are not our ways, and his thoughts are greater than our thoughts. "Special Creation" reveals the omnipotence of a big God, who with a breath of his nostril changes the formation of a galaxy. There is much evidence through the Word of God, scholars, and studies that "special creation" should be taken at face value. For the greatest evidence found is in the study of his Word. The word "Yom" found in Genesis, in the original context in Hebrew is a numerical adjective which means a duration of twenty-four hours (24). Any other word could have been used, for example, "Olam" which means "an indefinitely long period of time". But, the Bible and its writers were intentionally specific that the Hebrew word "Yom" was to be used, in order to be clear of truth. God himself wanted all readers to understand that he (the Lord) created the heavens and the earth in six days, and on the seventh day rested. For what is so difficult for the Master Carpenter, when he himself is also a master Architect. #soundsofmywritings #andyfernandez #iamministries