How does this apply to me? How should I understand my need for a savior?*
The Bible says that we are separated from a holy God by three barriers: a bad record, a bad heart, and a bad master. Spend some time and think honestly about three three things.
A bad record. “All have sinned…” (Romans 3:23) Would you want all of your thoughts, words, and actions displayed for the world to see? Or do you acknowledge that you are like everyone else - in the company of sinners?
A bad heart. “From the heart of man come evil thoughts…” (Mark 7:21) Can you acknowledge that there are selfish, unclean, unkind, lustful or mean things that rise in your heart and soul?
A bad master. “whoever commits sin is a slave…” (John 8:34) Do you see patterns in your life which mere willpower does not seem able to change?
*Adapted from “A New Life” booklet in Powerful Evangelism for the Powerless (Miller, C. John, p. 148 - 149).