Feeling saved or unsaved can be a struggle for many Christians. Even if we have put our faith in Jesus, there may still be times when we don’t feel secure in our salvation. This article will examine what the Bible says about assurance of salvation and offer guidance for those who struggle with doubt.
Salvation is by Grace Through Faith
The Bible clearly teaches that we are saved by God’s grace through our faith in Christ, not by our works or feelings (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our salvation rests securely in what Jesus did for us on the cross, not on our ability to muster up certain emotions. We don’t earn salvation by feeling a certain way. Rather, we receive the free gift of salvation by trusting in Christ.
Examine the Fruits in Your Life
Even though feelings shouldn’t be the basis for our security, examining the fruits of salvation in our lives can still be helpful. The Bible says that saving faith will result in a transformed heart and changed actions (James 2:14-26). So while we shouldn’t depend on works, we can look at spiritual growth in our lives as evidence that God is at work. Do you see fruits such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control increasing in your character (Galatians 5:22-23)? If so, this affirms God’s transformative work in your heart.
Remember Your Profession of Faith
Think back on when you first professed faith in Christ. Even if you don’t feel as passionate now, the Bible says we are sealed with the Holy Spirit when we first believed (Ephesians 1:13). Paul said he was confident that “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). Remembering your original commitment can reassure you of God’s ongoing work.
Rely on God’s Promises
Feelings change, but God’s promises remain steadfast. The Bible gives assurance that all who call on Christ’s name will be saved (Romans 10:13). Jesus said whoever comes to Him He will “never drive away” (John 6:37). Rather than looking inward at your emotions, look upward to what God has declared in His word about your salvation. Trust that God will keep His promises to you.
Talk to God About Your Doubts
Being open with God about your struggles can help bring you assurance. The Psalms are full of raw, honest prayers about doubting God’s presence and help (Psalm 13:1-2). Tell God exactly how you feel. Ask Him to increase your faith and reassure you of His salvation. He is ready to calm your anxieties and give you His peace (Philippians 4:6-7).
Rely on the Holy Spirit’s Testimony
In addition to God’s promises in Scripture, the Holy Spirit also testifies to believers that they are God’s children (Romans 8:15-16). When you are filled with self-doubt, pray for the Spirit to assure you of Christ’s redemptive work in your life. His quiet witness offers powerful affirmation of salvation.
Talk to a Pastor or Mature Christian
Speaking with a pastoral leader or a mature believer can be greatly comforting when you are doubting. They can listen, pray with you, and point you back to biblical truth. Meeting regularly with a small group of Christians provides ongoing support and accountability.
Remember that Ups and Downs Are Normal
Doubts and struggles with assurance are common, even for longtime believers. Feeling distant from God for a time does not mean He has abandoned you. C.S. Lewis said our faith journey is often characterized by highs and lows, not continuous spiritual mountaintop experiences. It’s normal to go through seasons of feeling near to God and seasons of feeling distant from Him.
Look at Christ, Not Yourself
Our emotions will fail us, but Christ never fails (2 Timothy 2:13). When plagued by doubt, fix your eyes and thoughts on Jesus, not on yourself. Remember what He accomplished through His sinless life, atoning death and victorious resurrection. Thank Him for paying the full price for your salvation. Focusing on Christ builds faith and assurance.
Trust God’s Sovereignty Over Salvation
If God has begun His saving work in you, He will not abandon that work halfway through (Philippians 1:6). Salvation from beginning to end is His sovereign work, not something we accomplish or maintain by our efforts. Resting on God’s sovereignty and power gives assurance when feelings of unsavedness threaten to overwhelm us.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
While it’s normal to experience some doubt, excessive anxiety about your salvation may point to a more serious issue, like scrupulosity or religious OCD. If doubts become spiritually debilitating, consider seeking counseling. Mental health professionals can help identify and treat the root causes of obsessive doubt.
Focus on Serving God, Not Your Feelings
Rather than being consumed by your emotions, redirect your focus to serving and glorifying God. Ask Him how you can grow in obedience and bear fruit for His kingdom. Our mission as believers is advancing His goodness in the world, not maintaining a perfect state of feeling saved at all times. As you fix your eyes on Christ-like living, assurance often follows.
Take It Day by Day
On days when you feel secure in God’s grace, thank Him and rejoice. On days when doubts creep in, pray for help in clinging to His promises. Either way, remember that God is able to keep you from falling (Jude 1:24). His mercy is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). Take it one day at a time, trusting in His faithfulness.
Keep Learning More About God
Building your biblical knowledge can further anchor your assurance. Study what Scripture says about salvation and God’s unchanging character. The more your worldview aligns with God’s truth, the more confident you’ll become in His redemption. Let your thirst for learning more about God cast out fear and uncertainty.
Rely on God’s Power, Not Self-Effort
Living the Christian life is not about white-knuckling our way to heaven by sheer effort. Self-dependence fails every time. God’s amazing grace is that He gives us His strength to accomplish His good works (Ephesians 2:10). Daily ask Him to fill and empower you through His Spirit. Cooperating with His power brings assurance.
Remember Past Answers to Prayer
If you’ve walked with God for any length of time, you’ve likely seen Him answer prayers and act in your life. When plagued by doubt, remember those times when God undeniably led you, provided for you, or worked in your circumstances. Let His proven faithfulness reassure you.
Trust God’s timing
If doubts linger even after pleading with God for deliverance, trust His timing. Some spiritual breakthroughs happen instantly. Others unfold slowly over seasons of seeking. Remain patient and persistent, believing that in His perfect timing, He will renew your assurance. “He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
Conclusion
Doubting feelings of salvation can be frightening and disheartening for believers. But Scripture offers powerful antidotes to these doubts. Remembering the unshakeable promises of God, relying on the testimony of the Spirit, and focusing our thoughts on the finished work of Christ will help renew our assurance. By God’s amazing grace, our faith can stand secure not on shifting emotions, but on the solid rock of Christ’s redemptive work for us.