The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls (1 Peter 1:9, NLT).
If we tell a person, “You need to get saved,” that person might consider us narrow-minded Bible fanatics. If posted on social media, we will be ridiculed, and if spoken at work, we might get fired for hate speech.
Yet the Bible, the most influential book in the history of the world, teaches that we need to be saved.
I admit the tonal quality of our preaching or witnessing can emphasize truth while lacking love. This is why Jesus says…
Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:29, NLT).
The ultimate result of salvation is rest.
If we tell a person, “You can find rest for your soul,” that person might listen. And we won’t be ridiculed on Facebook and perhaps not accused of hate speech.
Our soul is made up of mind, will, and emotion. It’s our ability to think, make decisions, and feel. A threatened, distracted, or tired soul doesn’t think rationally, makes poor choices, and can be motivated by anger or despair.
Scientific findings (that I trust) reveal the brain is wired to think, choose, and feel better when rested.
How do we find rest?
First: Know Jesus.
Once you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls (1 Peter 2:25, NLT).
When we admit our life choices come from selfish motives leading to the destruction of our souls, we can then turn to our Shepherd, who will save (restore and guard) our souls.
Second: Consume the Word of God.
So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls (James 1:21, NLT).
Any health plan will consider diet. I’ve tried to justify Cheez-its®, M&M’s®, and Diet Coke® as health food to my doctor, and his response seemed a little like a Billy Graham sermon on repentance!
A plan of daily consuming the Word into our souls can save (guard, heal, restore) our souls.
Third: Learn to Pray.
The Apostle John writes this great promise…
Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers (3 John 1:2, NASB1995).
John is praying for the good health and prosperity of our souls.
We can live in good health and prosperity and find rest for our souls. We only need to be…
Saved!