We pour out what God pours in.

Sometimes, a news story stays with you, simmering on the back burner of your mind and bubbling with questions. Such is the case with the headline that Susan Atkins died on Sept. 24.

The media identified her as a “member of the Manson Family.” She identified herself, though, as a Christian. In this video clip, she recited Psalm 23 with the help of her husband/attorney James Whitehouse. Among her final words were these: “My God is an amazing God.”

The issue of her salvation is a hot one among bloggers and story commentators: was she or wasn’t she?

Scripture says that salvation is by faith alone in Jesus Christ: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Not “faith plus…” baptism, philanthropy, service, sacrifice, knowledge, position, tradition or connections. Just faith.

As we prepare for the Keep a Smile On Your Faith™ retreat on Saturday, Oct. 24, we’re grateful again for the simplicity of saving faith. Many people focus on faith as a way to sustain religious practices… or solve problems… or snag points with God. But for us, faith is “belief to the point of action.” We believe that Jesus Christ is God’s Son, crucified to pay the penalty for our sin and resurrected to authenticate His every claim. We believed it to the point of action, and our salvation is sure.

But what about Susan’s faith? Is she in Heaven now? If she placed her faith in Christ alone, she is. A better question to ask is, are you headed there – by simple, saving faith?

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