of assurance of grace and salvation

in youth group they've been reading the westminster confession of faith. this week they read chapter 18. the part below particularly stuck out to me.

such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love Him in sincerity, endeavouring to walk in all good conscience before Him, may, in this life, be certainly assured that they are in the state of grace, and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God, which hope shall never make them ashamed.

this reminded me of Romans 1:16 - For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes

one of the youth shared that she has felt the calling to missions to china since she was 6. these truths inspire my confidence in my own calling and desire to share the Word.

Romans 8:1 - There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

I John 4:18 - There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.

the former part of the passage i quoted above from the westminster confession of faith speaks about false hope. i think this refers to the hope of heaven because we are 'good enough' according to the law. many people think they will go to heaven by their own merit, because they are 'good enough.' last week we talked about repentance unto faith. we must have both. scripture upon scripture echoes in my ears and i listen intently for their meaning. i want these people know the truth, to experience the freedom of Christ! the only reason that i have hope in life on this earth is for this purpose. He has called me to preach the good news that people might hear and be saved. in utter selfishness my desires i quite unlike my calling. every day is a battle...but every day is the Lord's.