dear James,
All of God's promises are conditional...He asks us to come to Him 'in LOve" and go to others "in love". Those that serve God for the reward only, will be disappointed, htis is 'Self Righteousness'. We find this record in Math 7:21
7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Also: 1 Cor. 13:1-13
please read the above reference. you will see that a person can believe...but if he has not the love of Jesus in your heart, you can do many things but it will 'profiteth nothing'. Works, must be done in the Spirit of Christ, not in the flesh [self] to be acceptable to God.
This Day with God---PG- 315
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith.
Heb. 10:22.
There can be no true prayer without true faith. "Without faith it is impossible to please him" (Heb. 11:6). Prayer and faith
are the arms by which the soul hangs upon the neck of infinite love, and grasps the hand of infinite power. God does not recognize dumb children, as far as experience in His truth is concerned. Faith is an active, working power. The newborn faith in Christ is revealed by prayer and praise. Prayer is a relief and a comfort to the troubled soul. The sincere, humble suppliant at the throne of grace may know that he is communing with God, through the divinely appointed means, and that it is his privilege to understand what God is to the believing soul. We must
have a realization of our needs. We must hunger and thirst after life in Christ and through Christ. Then we shall come to Him in
humility and sincerity, and He will give us the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. . . .
God Bless
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charlene