It’s a question that comes up for many of us, and an important one.

The first level of knowing that a person is saved is simply the fact that they care.  If it really matters to you, to me, that’s a good sign.  Beyond that, here are some things to look for to know if Jesus really has changed your heart.

1 Thessalonians 1:4-8

For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because…
our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power   [Has your life changed at all?]
and in the Holy Spirit   [Do certain things make more sense to you now than before Christ?]
and with full conviction.   [Does your conscience alert you to things you didn’t care about before?]

You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake.
And you became imitators of us and of the Lord,   [Does your life look more like Jesus and His people, or more like the world?]
for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,   [Are you able to be joyful in difficult circumstances?]
so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.   [If others were to imitate your life, would that be a good thing?  If your kids turn out JUST like you, will you be glad?]
For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia,   [Do you ever tell others about Jesus, or even want to at all?]
but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything.   [Are you getting a reputation as a Godly person, or would people be surprised to hear you’re a Christian?]

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Here’s the bottom line.  How do you know you’re saved?  How do I?

The proof is not necessarily in what you believe intellectually.  The proof is not in a perfect life, because we ALL have areas in which to grow.

The proof of salvation is in the presence of a changed heart with new desires and new behaviors.  It’s the evidence of a genuine WANT to grow more in Christ, rather than making excuses as to why “this is just the way I am.”

The proof is in the power.