In Touch - Mar. 26, 2008

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

            God has always existed. The Scriptures describe Him as One without beginning or end, whose kingdom will last forever (Psalm 90:2). While all human beings are born at a specific point in time with bodies that eventually die, we are also made in His eternal image (Genesis 1:26)—that is, we are eternal beings, too, with a spirit that will never cease to exist. 

            Jesus spoke several times about eternal life, an essential aspect of the Christian faith. He defined the term as follows: “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3). Notice that He was not describing a destination but an everlasting relationship with the triune God, which starts here on earth and continues in heaven. We experience this eternal life through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, who teaches, counsels, and guides us. 

            Until we receive Jesus Christ as Savior, we may have knowledge about God but cannot truly know Him. The Bible says that in our natural state, we are spiritually dead, with a nature opposed to God (Ephesians 2:1). Before we can begin to comprehend who He is, we must be spiritually alive (1 Corinthians 2:14). This takes place at salvation (John 3:6). 

            Who, then, can receive eternal life? God has provided a single way to enter into a relationship with Him—through faith in Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Everyone who trusts Him as Savior receives life everlasting (John 6:40). God invites all people to believe in His Son and receive this free gift.

FEATURED RESOURCE

The Life Principles Bible

This Bible combines the wisdom of Scripture with the principles that guide Dr. Stanley's life and empower his ministry. Order your copy.

To see more resources from In Touch Ministries, please visit us at www.intouch.org or go directly to our bookstore at In Touch Ministries.