Quote:
Originally Posted by sotzo  Quote: |
It is so easy to get discouraged and mislead when we take our eyes off the Savior and look too much to ourselves.
| The problem, however, is that it is impossible to not look at ourselves to some degree as we exercise faith, because it is we whose eyes need to be on Jesus. IOW, the subjective self is bound up in the act of faith and because of that it is impossible to crawl out of myself and objectively know I am saved rather than to subjectively waver. I long for that objectivity.
Oh that the following words would comfort such a soul as mine!
HE (and not me) has hushed the law's loud thunder,
HE (and not me) has quenched Mount Sinai's flame.
HE (and not me) who washed us with His blood
Has secured our way to God. |
I too had no assurance as an independent fundamental dispensational baptist. I could never get over the thought that if even only 1% of my salvation depended on me I was still in big trouble because I knew/know how untrustworthy and inconsistent I am. It was only in being granted an understanding of the DoG and CT that assurance finally came. Do I still doubt? Yes. But knowing that salvation has nothing to do with me and my abilities forces me to focus upon Christ and His promise to keep His sheep. When I meditate upon Him and His promises I always find peace. Sometimes immediately but often only after wallowing around in the pit of self-pity and doubt for awhile. But as the WCF says, I no longer come to utter despair. God is most gracious to His children, and especially to those who ask for needed grace. IMO.
Look to the Spirit for guidance and comfort,
Romans 8:26-27
. Honestly and earnestly search your heart for the true fruits of the Spirit. And ask yourself, "Do I truly love Jesus?", for He said "Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me." - John 8.42.
I don't know if any of that helps, but I hope so. I also offer my sincere prayers on your behalf that the Lord will quickly return to you the joy and assurance of His salvation or grant you true repentance, if that be the need.
Blessings!