Once You Are Saved, What Then?
A Dream in the Storm
Some time ago, I had a dream. During a storm at sea, I struggled in the water as huge waves crashed around me. I fought to keep my head above the surface. Lightning flashed across the sky, and thunder drowned out my cries for help.
At that moment, the fear of dying kept me fighting to stay afloat.
Rescued by Jesus
Suddenly, a strong hand took hold of my arm and lifted me onto the deck of a boat. As I caught my breath, I rubbed the salt water from my burning eyes. The storm still raged around the boat, yet I felt safe. Then, I stood up and held tightly to the railing.
A voice called my name, and I recognized Jesus.
First, I wanted to show my gratitude. However, my words felt too small for what had just happened. Jesus had saved my life, and His presence felt very real. Since I did not know what to do next, I looked for a safe place to sit and wait for the storm to pass.
A Call to Help Others
Then, in the distance, I heard other voices crying for help. I shuddered as I realized how close I had come to death. At the same time, I knew how blessed I was. Jesus had rescued me, and now I stood in His presence.
Then, in a loud voice, Jesus called out to me:
“Get up and pull those who are still in the water on board!”
A cold chill gripped my heart. In a weak voice, I tried to explain my fear:
“But Lord, I cannot do it. I’m scared I’ll fall back into the water!”
Jesus answered:
“I’ll hold onto your one arm while you lean over the side and pull those in the water onto the deck.”
And sure enough, one by one, I pulled the people whose cries I heard out of the stormy water and onto the boat.
What Comes After Salvation?
For many years, I wrestled with this question:
“Once you are saved, what then?”
Specifically, I wrestled with what that question meant for me. At first, I only thought about it in my mind. However, the answer became clear over time. Once you receive the message of the Gospel, you must do something with it.
Two Thoughts to Remember
First, when you know what it feels like to be lost, you understand more deeply what it means for Jesus to save you. You also begin to understand the joy and peace of His presence.
Second, when the message of the Gospel reaches your heart, you cannot keep it to yourself. Instead, you should reach out and help others who still need a helping hand.
Are You Sure of Your Salvation?
If you would like to have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, you can pray this prayer:
Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.
If you prayed this prayer sincerely, your new life with Christ can start today.
About Anton Rautenbach
Anton Rautenbach lives in Johannesburg, South Africa. He works in commitment and contract management. For more than 20 years, he has worked mainly in the petrochemical and aviation industries. He hopes to become an entrepreneur and management consultant. His passion is helping people with disabilities overcome challenges.
Angel and Miracle Stories
- Thankful for Air – a miraculous cure from Pulmonary Fibrosis
- The Surgeon Began to Cry – “Someone was moving my hands.”
- Angel at the Train Station
- Daddy Helped Us – “But daddy is dead.”