p. 5 | The Joy of Being Saved by G. B. T.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 27, 1916

The Joy of Being Saved

By G. B. T.

WHILE sin has a tremendous power over the soul, and the kingdom of darkness and all the principalities of evil are using every scheme possible to destroy souls; we have one who is able to save “to the uttermost.” Heb. 7:25. He who comes “with dyed garments, . . . glorious in his apparel, traveling in the greatness of his strength,” is indeed “mighty to save.” Isa. 63:1.

We fight a conquered foe. In open conflict the legions of hell have been defeated for us. “Having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

The army of the enemy is indeed defeated. The destruction of the prince of darkness and all his subjects is decreed. The execution of the sentence is only stayed for a time. His kingdom will be utterly annihilated; no trace of it will remain. The curse will be no more.

The final triumph of righteousness over unrighteousness is assured, not for the future alone, but for God’s people now. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

Now, thank God, we can be saved. Today we can hear his voice, and respond. Today we can be saved from sin. God “hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.” He “hath chosen us,” he “hath made us accepted in the beloved,” and “we have redemption through his blood.” Eph. 1: 3-7. The transaction is done. The eternal triumph of salvation of those who believe

is assured through Christ. It only remains for us to lay hold by faith, and rejoice now in this blessed truth.

“Thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of his knowledge by us in every place.” 2 Cor. 2:14. “Always causeth us to triumph”! Causeth us to triumph now, today, all this day, and tomorrow, and through life! Blessed salvation this!

And salvation brings joy to the heart. It brings joy to be saved from some great and impending danger, but much more to know that we are saved from sin.

Some years ago the great liner “Atlantic” foundered off the coast of Newfoundland, and hundreds perished in the angry icy sea. On board was a prominent business man, who was reported as among those who had perished. His place of business was closed and draped in mourning. Kind friends came to console the sorrowing ones. But a telegram came next morning to the business partner, with only one word, “Saved.” There was then great rejoicing in his home. The man himself rejoiced at his deliverance from death, and the friends who had mourned with the family came to rejoice with them.

So an assurance of salvation from sin brings joy and gladness into the heart. It makes others glad also. And in heaven there is joy. “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7, 10.

Let us accept this great salvation day by day, and rejoice in the blessings of deliverance from sin continually.

G. B. T.