Isaiah 32:17 states that “...the work of righteousness (rightness – doing what is right in the eyes of God, character) shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness is quietness and assurance for ever.” Assurance, beh'-takh, H983 in Strong's Greek and Hebrew dictionaries, means a place of refuge of security and trust.
We are taught in 2 Corinthians 5:21 that if we have received Christ's gracious work of righteousness by faith, we have been “made the righteousness (right character) of God in Christ.” We are not saved because we are worthy, but because Jesus is! And in Romans 4:5 Paul tells us that to those who do not rely on their conformity to the law for justification - but believe instead on Him that justifies the ungodly, their faith is counted for righteousness. So, you see, salvation is the priceless possession of all who have believed and received Christ's work of righteousness, through faith.
Then, having received the justification by faith, one who truly is a saved believer will experience the assurance of salvation accompanied by peace of mind and heart as a result of practicing the works of righteousness in their daily walk with the Lord. “God is not unrighteous and will not forget your work and labor of love which you have showed toward His name...And we desire that every one of you show the same diligence to the complete certainty of hope to the end (Hebrews 6:10-11).”
Paul goes on to explain in verse 19 that our hope in Christ is an anchor for our soul in this world of trials, storms, and temptations. This anchor is solid and unmovable in the storm, holding us steady and securely!
We can know that by grace we are saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8). Furthermore, to know our faith itself is genuine, God has given us this test of faith. “And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments” (1 John 2:3).
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