by Pastor Greg Laurie
July 29
God's Free Gift
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 10:9)
Many years ago, I was given some free tickets to Disneyland. I was walking around the park having a good time, but I started to feel guilty because I had two extra tickets. I thought maybe there was someone outside who wanted to come in, but perhaps couldn't afford it. So, I decided to go outside and find someone to give the tickets to. I noticed some kids hanging out in front of the park. I walked up and said, "Hi. I have two free tickets to Disneyland. Would you like them?"
"What are you doing, man?"
"Just two free tickets," I said.
"How much is it going to cost us?"
"It won't cost you anything. I have some extra. I would just like you to have them."
"No."
I went to someone else. "Hi. I have these two free tickets to Disneyland. I would like to give them to you." Again and again, I received the same response. It took 40 minutes to give away those tickets.
People are suspicious, and the same goes when it comes to spiritual things. We say, "The way to be forgiven of your sin and to have eternal life is to turn from your sin, receive Jesus Christ into your heart as your Lord and Savior, and begin to follow Him." People respond, "That's too easy. What's the catch? What else do I have to do?" In our pride, we want to think we have something to do with our salvation. But if we will come to God on His terms and do what He says, then we will be forgiven of our sins and have the assurance of eternal life.
Copyright (c) 2004 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright (c) 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.