Am I Included In The Rapture?

Q

I have always believed in Jesus as my savior since I was very young. I have been baptized and confessed outwardly that I believe. Lately I have been thinking I am going to die and am not going to heaven, which scares and deeply saddens me! I have continued to do things I shouldn’t. I remember my Pastor telling me that I am living the exact way the enemy wants me to live, in bondage. Please help me! I do believe Jesus died for me and I know this wretched world is coming to an end very soon. Am I included in the rapture?

A

Salvation is based on belief. The only requirement God makes of you is that you believe in the one He sent (John 6:28-29). Jesus said everyone who asks for salvation receives it (Matt. 7:7-8). Paul said as soon as we believe our inheritance is guaranteed (Ephes. 1:13-14). If you believe Jesus died for your sins you’ll go in the rapture with the rest of us sinners.

I agree with your pastor that you’re living the way the enemy wants you to, but for a different reason. The enemy is using your guilt over the way you act to make you doubt your salvation when we’re saved because of what we believe not how we behave (John 3:16, John 6:40, Romans 10:9, etc.). As often as necessary, confess your sins to God and each time He will purify you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:7-8). If you read these verses and apply them in your life, you’ll find yourself sinning less and less.