Accepting A Free Gift

If you could have a gift, what would you desire? 

Some would say money or power. However, those in our world who have money and power do not seem to be pleased or content with them.

Some would say health. It is true that good health is a wonderful possession; however, we all know that eventually we will die. The Bible even says that our life is like a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away (James 4:14). We also know the Bible is true when it says that we all will die (Hebrews 9:27). 
So what could possibly be the greatest gift that man can possess? It must be to live eternally in a perfect place (heaven) and to dwell in a perfect body. We are thankful that the Bible shows us that we can have this gift! 

The problem is that man is a sinner (Romans 3:23); and, because we sin, we deserve to go to hell (Romans 6:23). Hell is a real place of torments (Mark 9:42-48). 

Man tries many things to escape hell and to go to heaven. Some try to go to heaven by being baptized. But 1 Peter 3:21 tells us that baptism cannot put away the filth of the flesh.
Some try to live "right" and keep the law. But Galatians 3:24 tells us that the law was not given to save us, but rather to show us our need of the Savior.

Some try to have good works that will impress God, so that they can go to heaven. But Titus 3:5 tells us that we are not saved by good works. 

The way to heaven is not in our works, it is through the work of the Lord Jesus Christ. He knew that we could not save ourselves, so He came to the earth through the virgin birth. He lived a sinless life and died in our place on the cross. Only by receiving His gift of salvation can we know that we are going to heaven. 

The Bible tells us to repent of our sins (Luke13:30) and to ask the Lord to save our souls (Romans 10:9-13). The Bible tells us that our salvation is free to us (Ephesians 2:8,9). Our salvation cost the Lord His life on the cross, but He loves us so much (Romans 5:8) that He offers eternal life to each of us (2 Peter 3:9). Are you willing to repent of your sins, pray and accept the gift of everlasting life (John 1:12)?

If you are prepared to accept this free gift, then just talk to God and ask him for it.  It's free, and does not depend on any gift or effort on your part, nor need you ask permission from any other person.  This issue is extremely personal in nature and is completely between you and God.

Asking God for the free gift of salvation is simple, and is often referred to as praying the "Sinners Prayer".  An example of such a prayer is given below, for reference, but feel free to modify to to your own liking or make up one of your own.  So long as you acknowledge the fact that you are a sinner in need of rescue and salvation, that you believe what Jesus has claimed, that you are turning your life over Him, and then simply ask for forgiveness  and salvation, you will be saved.

"Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and I do not deserve eternal life. But, I believe You died and rose from the grave to purchase a place in Heaven for me. Jesus, come into my life, take control of my life, forgive my sins and save me. I am now placing my trust in You alone for my salvation and I accept your free gift of eternal life."