Christian = Those who Call upon the name of Jesus

1 Corinthians 1 (NIV)

1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,

2 To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours:

Christians are those who call on the name of Jesus.  A Christian, at least once, has called on the name of Jesus for forgiveness of sins.  We reach a place where we understand not by our power, but by Jesus’ sacrifice are we reconciled with God.

Jesus’ death on the cross bridges the gap between God and us. If and only if, we cry out to Jesus asking Him to take our sins and to be Lord of our lives can we come into a relationship where a true life of gratitude to God is possible.  Through crying out to Jesus. we start on a path where we become one with Jesus as he is one with God (John 14-16).  We see His plan may not be our plan, but His plan will always be greater than our plan.

By growing closer to Jesus, by being one with Jesus, we can reach a point where we trust God that He is honestly in control, and will work all things for good for those who love Him.

Exercise

Describe when you cried out to Christ asking Him to be Lord of your life.   If you have never asked Jesus to be you savior, search your heart do you want to hand over your life to Christ.  Ask Christ to forgive you of your sins and to come into your heart as Lord.

Living a life of Thanksgiving is about being in relationship with God.  Accepting Jesus’ sacrifice is the only method God has given us for coming into relationship with Him.

Play list

What A Friend We Have In Jesus Amy Grant            Legacy… Hymns and Faith

The Old Rugged Cross Chris Rice            Peace Like a River: The Hymns Project