In order to be reconciled to God, it is necessary to recognise that you are still a rebel (that is, a sinner) and have missed God's standard of perfection.

Romans 3:10 There is no one righteous, not even one.

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

That rebellion carries a very heavy penalty. But, the penalty can be commuted: Jesus took the penalty of all humanity through his death, and thereby offers eternal life to all those who accept him as Lord and Saviour.

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Jesus exchanged humanity's sin for his righteousness.

2 Corinthians 5:21 He made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Therefore God raised him from the dead and exalted him to the highest place of honour.

Ephesians 1:20-21 He exercised this power in Christ by raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens - far above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

If you identify with the truth of these words, you can be reconciled to God through a simple heartfelt prayer:

Heavenly Father, I admit that I am a sinner, that I have fallen short of your glory. I thank you that Jesus through his death took the penalty of my sin and I accept his righteousness in exchange. I believe that you raised him from the dead and that you will also raise me to eternal life. I invite Jesus into my life as Lord and Saviour, and ask you to make me like him. Help me to grow in grace and the knowledge of Jesus. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.

If you prayed that, then know:

Luke 15:10 I tell you, in the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels over one sinner who repents.

What to do next:

Tell someone! – you could even use the contact address.

God wants a personal relationship with you now and into eternity. Get to know him by reading his Word regularly, and ask him to reveal himself to you.

Pray to God regularly and learn to hear his voice.

Demonstrate your love by being obedient to his Word.

Find a local church that teaches the whole Word and become part of a family that will support you, challenge you, and help you to grow.