REJOICING IN HIS SALVATION
“And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; it shall rejoice in His salvation.”
Psalm 35:9
David recognized that salvation is not the product of man’s work or effort. He referred to salvation as “His (God’s) salvation”. The Apostle Paul would completely agree, writing to the Ephesians, “For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9).
“His salvation” brings great joy when man receives it. Recognizing that it is not of our works but entirely of God’s grace that we are saved, we immediately ascribe all praise and glory to Him. The extent of God’s salvation is defined by four prepositions, namely: “from”, “to”, “for” and “by”. Let’s note their application.
I. FROM WHAT WE HAVE BEEN SAVED.
1. Sin’s dominion: “For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.” Romans 6:14.
2.Sin’s ultimate consequence: “The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23.
II. TO WHAT WE ARE SAVED.
1. Divine peace in our lives:
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.
2. Divine fellowship in our lives:
“If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another.” I John 1:7
III. FOR WHAT WE ARE SAVED.
1. In this life, good works in the service of God and to the glory of God. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” Ephesians 2:10.
“For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” I Corinthians 6:20.
2. In the life to come, the bliss of heaven.
“But as it is written: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” I Corinthians 2:9.
IV. BY WHAT WE ARE SAVED. The two essential things:
1. The atoning death of our Lord Jesus:
“Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things like silver or gold…but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” I Peter 1:18-19
2. Our personal faith in Him as our Savior:
“Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.” 1 John 4:15. “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. ” Romans 10:9.
