You see, being a “Christian” in America these days seems, to a great number of individuals, to be what one is by default as long as one is not Muslim,

Buddhist, atheist or something else. Some have been heard to say [by firsthand experience] that because his parents were attendees of a particular church or denomination, that he/she is Christian by “upbringing”.

This would be nice, but the truth of the matter is that no one is saved unless ascribing to the most simplistic of actions as outlined in the Bible. That is to believe in your heart and consequently profess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of the true and living God (Romans 10:9-10). That He came to the earth to die for our sins and rose three days later, canceling our sin debt out if we only truly believe on Him.

When you are serious about this and do what was just outlined, you can rest assured that you have inherited eternal life through Jesus Christ. The fruits of this blessed decision should show up in your day to day life. You will find that God will clean you up as you live for Him and are obedient to His Word. You will not want to do the same old, wrong things you used to do and you will have a desire to share the Good News of what God has done for you with others so they can experience it as well. If you need help with the words to pray you can use the words below as a guideline, but no matter what, make sure it comes from the heart:

Father God,

Please forgive me. I have sinned by doing things that I know are not pleasing to you.
It is my desire to turn away from this life of wrong-doing and turn towards you and the things that you will for my life. I accept your son Jesus Christ into my heart as my personal Lord and Savior. I realize that without Him my life is incomplete. Thank you for accepting me into your family. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

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