A Poem for Thought!

 

 

Almost Doesn't Count

So glad to this I took into account
As my soul does jump and leap for joy
Because I know almost doesn't count

To my fleshly shell this world does discount
As the devil my soul awaits to destroy
So glad to this I took into account

Believing the Lord my soul does surmount
As I listen to what He does deploy
Because I know almost doesn't count

I can not ignore His presences in life
For in life my joy has increased
In knowing with Him I'll be afterlife

In this knowing depression has ceased
Giving my being an uplifting soul
Where in happiness my being released

Taking back where the devil did control
So glad to this I took into account
As with the Lord my being made whole

Because I know almost doesn't count

      ©Doris Elaine

Thoughts: I hear people say all the time "well, I believe, isn't that enough", and then go about their lives doing what ever, as if they don't really believe, or maybe, better said, as if that's all they need to do. Yes, believing is the first step towards salvation, but the Bible says, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:16. NKJV). We are to take action upon our belief and one of those actions is to be baptized. In addition, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14-16. NKJV). Telling others of your experience as a faith filled Christian is another action that is considered a testimony, that for most Christians is unavoidable due the excitement that comes from knowing Jesus Christ. This action, glorifies God and, although not necessarily a necessity to salvation, but is more of an uncontrollable desire that comes from seeking God and all His wisdom. And, this comes from doing more than just believing. I know at times, I can't help from telling, as a witness to His glory, what God has done for me. We are to be a light in darkness, as we are called out, simply put. "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy." (1 Peter 2:9-10. NKJV). We cannot help but speak of His mercy when we do more than just believe. An actionable thing to do that will make one's life easier here and into salvation is to read and study the Bible. "But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:14-17). This action helps us spiritually mature to where God needs us and additionally makes our life easier and better here. But, I think perhaps the biggest action, which also, is a command, that seems-especially in this day and age-some do not see as a needed action towards salivation, is that we love one another. "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another." (John 13:34. NKJV). This action is probably one of the hardest, as lets admit, some people are just down right hard to love. But, in taking action beyond belief, we must at least try. And, love your brethren (Christians) above all and try to counsel one another. Sometimes, I have wrote something or thought something to later find out I had it wrong or slightly mixed up. As I've said before, I am a maturing Christian and can get it wrong, sometimes. But, as far as going beyond believing, I know in my own experience that just believing isn't enough. I'm not in it for just almost as I know the difference in believing, witnessing, and, reading and studying the Bible has made in my life. I am a much happier and joy filled person than I was prior when all I did was believe without taking action. And was baptized in 2004. As for my salvation, I know almost doesn't count!