I was recently reading in John chapter 3 specifically looking at verse 19 that says, “And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.” I sat there, pondering and questioning the Lord about why we, myself included, tend to love darkness more than light. Why is it that we think our evil deeds will never be exposed? Like children, we often engage in things we know we shouldn’t, persisting until we’re finally caught. A commentary that I was reading about this verse made this statement: “In the ultimate sense, man’s love of darkness rather than God the light is his love for idols. He worships and serves created things rather than the creator.” (“They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.” Romans 1:25)

Therefore, in order for us to “Say Yes” to Jesus we can implement these three action steps. The first step to saying yes to Jesus is turning away from sin (repentance) and putting faith in the gospel according to Mark 1:15. Jesus calls for a personal acknowledgment of sin and the decision to trust in His work for salvation. Repentance involves a change of heart and mind, leading to a transformed life of following Jesus. (“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:15)

Saying yes to Jesus means confessing Him as Lord. This act means publicly declaring that He is the ruler and has authority over your life. This confession is not just about words but your actions acknowledging His power over everything, including your personal choices, and a belief in His resurrection. This step of faith brings salvation as described in Romans 10:9. (“Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9) 

Finally, saying yes to Jesus involves self-denial and a willingness to embrace a life of surrender to God’s will. The familiar scripture of Luke 9:23 details that following Jesus is a daily decision and often involves sacrifice. By choosing to follow Him, you are committing to a life of discipleship, making His ways and teachings your guide. (“And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'” Luke 9:23)

When you and I repent, confess, and follow Jesus, we are actively posturing ourselves in obedience and surrender to Him. Our daily actions will be transformed from living for self to living for Jesus when we “Say Yes”.