Please don't refresh this page.
We are submitting all your information.

This takes few seconds.
It will redirect after submission.
Devotional
CONNECTION HOME
< Prev Next >
May 22, 2023

Sealed and Secure

May 22, 2023 by SHIRLEY RALSTON SECURITY God’s guidance & direction Hearing God & Understanding His Will Identity in Christ Spiritual wellness Trust Abide Reliance
Sealed and Secure
  • by SHIRLEY RALSTON
  • Comment
“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”
Ephesians 1:13

In the early years of my Christian life, I remember hearing stories about people who “fell away” or “walked away” from their Christian faith. It still happens; only the terms have changed. Today we hear of believers going through “deconstruction” or “deconversion”. It’s a tough time for anybody who is struggling with their beliefs. Unresolved questions about any area of Biblical truth can trigger doubt.  


There is one crucial thing to remember in those turbulent times, a fact clearly articulated in Ephesians 1:13. 


In one short verse, Paul communicates the steps of salvation. The Ephesians heard the Word, believed the Word and were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. The essence of the term sealed, in the original Greek (sphragizō), is to be secure, to become designated, and made secure as a sign of authentication or ownership. It is legal language that denotes a final act, a definitive action at the moment of salvation that is permanent. The Holy Spirit abides with us forever.  


By God’s grace, He has given us a Counselor to fulfill many roles in our lives. The Holy Spirit comes alongside us to advise, exhort, comfort, strengthen, intercede, and encourage us. * 


When you struggle with doubts and questions, seek the counsel of the Spirit. Listen carefully, and you will recognize the difference between the Spirit’s counsel and worldly wisdom. Be ready to be led, and remember, you are secure – You are stamped with the permanent seal of ownership. You belong to our loving God. 


“Don't let obstacles along the road to eternity shake your confidence in God's promise. The Holy Spirit is God's seal that you will arrive.” -  David Jeremiah  


* https://static.billygraham.org/sites/lp.billygraham.org/uploads/prod/2020/12/11143-Holy-Spirit_Pamphlet_Final.pdf  

Closing Prayer
Lord, You already know our struggles. Give us the courage to bring them before you, knowing we are safe in your hands. Render us willing and humble under the guidance of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
Resources
Resource: Who is the Holy Spirit? This is a brief, easy-to-read resource on the role of the Holy Spirit in our life. A great reminder of the security of our salvation and the help that is always available to us.
Question for Reflection

When you’re troubled by doubt in your Christian life, where do you turn?

Comments
Shirley Ralston
May 22, 2023

There was a period in my life when I wrestled with many issues related to Christian doctrine. I set about assessing theological issues from all sides, without bias. My struggle led me to pray a lot, read, and study – eventually through formal seminary training. While I still don’t have definitive answers to all of life’s questions, I am reconciled to the fact that some things are just a mystery. I know one day all will be revealed by my Heavenly Father. My trust and faith are stronger having laid all my questions before Him.