Taste and See
When was the last time that you tasted a luscious, red strawberry or enjoyed a cold, sweet slice of watermelon? In just one mouth-watering bite you savored a little of God's creative goodness
But have you ever tasted his love? Evidence of God's love is all around you--in the beauty of a sunrise...the kindness of a friend...the very breath you breathe--all are expressions of the love your Creator has for you.
Despite what some people say, God didn't just wind up the universe and leave it to slowly unwind. He is very active today, drawing us by his love to himself. In fact, his love is so great that it can bridge the gap that separates us from him. "God shows his love for us," wrote a man who knew God well, "in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us " (Romans 5:8).
That's love
The writer went on to explain that "we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son" (Romans 5:10). The love shown in Jesus' death in our place as sinners is the love we all need more than any other. And the experience of being made right with God is the benefit we all need more than any other.
Being at peace with God is absolutely necessary for eternal life. That peace is God's great gift to each person who simply believes that forgiveness of sins only comes through Christ. God's Son shed his blood for us on the cross and rose from the dead three days later to conquer the power of sin and death over us and make eternal life available to us.
Many people merely know something about God's love, but they have never "tasted"--experienced--it through personal belief. If you have never responded to God's love gift, you can today. Here's how.
Admit that you, like all of us human beings, are separated from the love of a holy God by sin, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
Realize that God loves you, and believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).
Receive Christ into your life and trust him as your Savior: "To all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12).
You can tell God your decision by praying words like these: "Dear God, thank You that you loved me so much that you sent your Son to die for me. I know that without Jesus' sacrifice for me I would be separated from you and your love forever. I believe that Jesus took the punishment I deserved so I can be forgiven and have eternal life. I invite him into my life as my Savior. Thank you for making my salvation possible."