“Save me” (Psalm 69:1a). “Save your people” (Psalm 28:9a). The plea to God to save is a refrain heard throughout the Scriptures.

His promise to save is recorded from Genesis (3:15) throughout the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings. The Scriptures go into great detail describing the Savior who was sent, especially in Isaiah. The Psalms have many references, like Psalm 69, to the events in the life of Jesus.

When Jesus as an infant was brought to the temple for the required sacrifice (Leviticus 12:6-8; Luke 2:27), Simeon held Jesus and praised God:

For my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.
Luke 2:30-32

The prophetess Anna added her thanksgiving to God at the same time and then began proclaiming the arrival of the Messiah to all who were waiting and hoping for redemption (Luke 2:36-38).

God tells us:

But I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt. You shall acknowledge no God but me, no Savior except me.
Hosea 13:4

The apostle John gives no room for doubt that he knew Jesus was God who became flesh to be God our Savior (John 1:1-18).

Jesus taught he was the Son of Man and the Son of God who gave his body to death so those who believe could enter into eternal life. Jesus's birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension back to heaven are well documented. Today, those who have accepted God's salvation from the death penalty for their sins are witnesses of God’s power to change people who return to him in faith and obedience.

Even though we were not among those who actually saw with our own eyes as the Twelve and hundreds of witnesses did, we are blessed by Jesus who said to Thomas and to us today:

Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.
John 20:29

The Samaritans believed the message about Jesus before they met him (John 4:39-42). Most people who accept Jesus experience something similar: we believe the message and then God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit begin the work of solidifying that belief into our minds, hearts and conduct.

Jesus also said salvation is for those who persevere to the end (Matthew 24:13). Salvation is a gift from God, but he will not force it on anyone who refuses his priceless, but costly gift (Revelation 21:7-8; Revelation 22:12-16).

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.
Revelation 22:17