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When it comes to witnessing, God has two desires: He wants us to witness concerning Him, and He wants to witness concerning us. So witnessing is a two-edged sword that cuts both heavenward and earthward. I have heard a great deal about our witnessing for God, but I have heard little or nothing about God witnessing for us.
What is witnessing? Affirming what is a fact. When I witness to Jesus Christ, I am simply confirming that He is what He claims to be, the son of God and the Savior of men. On the other hand, when Jesus Christ witnesses to us, He affirms either one or two things about us. The first is illustrated by Abel, who offered his gift by faith, and "obtained witness that he was righteous" (Hebrews 11:4, KJV). When Abel offered his sacrifice, God immediately witnessed to the whole universe that Abel was now "righteous." This was affirming the fact that Abel was declared righteous (justified) in the record book of heaven.
The same thing happens to every one of us who "offers the gift of faith," that is, accepts the sacrifice of Calvary as his own. How do we know? We know by God's witness of us; He affirms the fact that we are now in Christ, and testifies on our behalf before the whole universe. *Thus, the assurance of salvation does not rest upon our feelings, which rise and fall with body rhythms, health, circumstances, and even the weather; but upon God's word of testimony that I, upon the expression of my faith in Jesus Christ, am declared righteous in the heavenly account book.*
Thank God for a sure word of testimony! And thank God that the judge Himself has already taken the witness stand and has vindicated me! "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). *AMEN*
"Everyone therefore who shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven" (Matthews 10:32). *AMEN*
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