Im convinced that virtually every true Christian doubts his or her salvation on occasion. After all, if we have one entire book of the Biblenamely 1 Johnwritten to address the subject, you can be sure its a common problem in the Christian life. If youre holding this book because you struggle with whether you are right with God, I believe youll find solid, biblical help in these pages. -- Donald S. Whitney, Professor of Biblical Spirituality and Associate Dean of the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky; Author, How Can I Be Sure I'm a Christian?
Bill Smith has done a great service for those who feel the absence of God in the presence of suffering, sorrow, and even our battle with sin. Each daily reading drops fresh perspective, unshackling insights, and biblical wisdom that focuses the mind and fortifies the soul. If living assured of the astounding scope of Gods love is a pressing need for you, take a month and allow Assurance to enrich your faith towards God. Then do it again! -- Dave Harvey, Teaching Pastor, Summit Church, Naples, Florida; Author, When Sinners Say I Do: Discovering the Power of the Gospel for Marriage
"This is one of the most refreshing devotionals I have read in quite some time. Bill is a skilled pastor, apologist, and counselor for the Christian faith. Through this 31-Day devotional, he condenses rich biblical doctrine into bit-sized truths, and applies them to common doubts most Christians wrestle with. Personally, this was a deep encouragement to my soul and I trust it will be for yours as well. Highly recommended!" -- John Perritt, Director of Resources, Reformed Youth Ministries; Author, Insecure: Fighting Our Lesser Fears with a Greater One
As I began reading Bill Smiths devotional, Assurance: Resting in Gods Salvation, people I care about kept going through my mind. Whether its counselees, members of my church, or extended family members, so many Christians struggle with assurance of their salvation. Having finished Assurance, now I cant wait to share copies with these dear folks. Bill does not ignore our doubts or diminish our feelings. Instead, he consistently, gently, and wisely shepherds us back to the Shepherd and the Scriptures. -- Bob Kellemen, Vice President of Strategic Development and Academic Dean, Faith Bible Seminary, Lafayette, Indiana; Author, Grief: Walking with Jesus
William P. Smith gets right to the cry of my heart in his latest book, Assurance-Resting in Gods Salvation, when he asks: Are you used to thinking of God as someone who cares about doubters? What a perfect question to help us all to meditate on and proclaim the Scriptural truth that God delights in helping doubters to grow in assurance of his love. -- Tara Barthel, Professional Christian Mediator; Author, the Living the Gospel in Relationships DVD Series
Bill Smith is enthralled by the gospel. I have heard him teach, preach, read his articles and books as well as co-counsel with him. His laser like, soul piercing questions and gentle naming the struggle to understand and believe Gods benevolent grace is accurate because he has first identified in his own heart the same struggles to believe. This 31-day devotional has isolated the most difficult questions I recycle. It helps me by softening my heart. Awed again by God, I believe. -- Penny Nelson Freeman, Counselor, ServingLeaders Ministries; Counselor and Trainer, Parakaleo