Knowing you’ve truly repented and have a relationship with God is about understanding the transformation in your heart, mind, and actions. Here’s a breakdown to help you discern:

1. What is True Repentance?

Repentance is more than saying “I’m sorry.” It’s a deep, heartfelt turning away from sin and turning toward God.
• Recognition of Sin: You acknowledge that your sin separates you from God (Isaiah 59:2).
• Godly Sorrow: You feel genuine regret over your sin, not just because of its consequences but because it offends God (2 Corinthians 7:10).
• Turning Away: True repentance involves a change of direction—rejecting sin and striving to live according to God’s Word (Acts 3:19).
• Desire for Holiness: You want to please God and live a life that reflects His love and truth (1 Peter 1:15-16).

2. Signs You Have a Relationship with God

A relationship with God isn’t about perfection but progression. Here are some key signs:

a. You Desire to Spend Time with God
• Prayer: You talk to God regularly, not just when you need something, but because you love Him and want to know Him more.
• Reading His Word: You enjoy reading the Bible to understand His will and grow closer to Him (Psalm 119:105).

b. You See Changes in Your Heart and Life
• Love for God: You love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).
• Love for Others: You find yourself caring more about others, forgiving them, and wanting to serve (John 13:34-35).
• Victory Over Sin: You notice a gradual change in your attitude toward sin. While you may still struggle, you hate sin and fight against it (1 John 1:8-10).

c. You Rely on God Daily
• You trust Him in difficult times, knowing He is in control (Proverbs 3:5-6).
• You turn to Him for guidance and strength, rather than relying on your own abilities.

d. You Feel Conviction, Not Condemnation
• When you sin, you feel the Holy Spirit convicting you to repent and return to God (John 16:8).
• You don’t feel hopeless or condemned because you know God’s forgiveness is available through Jesus (Romans 8:1).

e. You Bear Spiritual Fruit

Your life begins to show evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

3. Assurance of Salvation
• Faith in Jesus: You know that salvation is not about your works but about believing in what Jesus has done for you (Ephesians 2:8-9).
• A Changed Heart: You want to please God, not out of fear but out of love and gratitude (2 Corinthians 5:17).
• Peace in God’s Promises: You trust in God’s Word, which assures you that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life (John 3:16).

4. What If I Don’t Feel Close to God?

If you’re unsure, don’t rely solely on feelings. Faith is about trusting God’s promises, not emotions. If you’ve repented, confessed your sins, and believe in Jesus, you are saved (Romans 10:9-10).

Steps to Deepen Your Relationship:
1. Spend Time with Him Daily: Pray and read the Bible consistently.
2. Confess Your Sins: Keep a short account with God; confess and turn away from sin quickly.
3. Stay in Fellowship: Surround yourself with other believers who encourage and support your walk with God.
4. Obey His Commands: Live out your faith by doing what God asks of you (John 14:15).

5. A Final Reminder

God desires a relationship with you and loves you deeply. If you’ve turned from sin, trusted in Jesus, and seek Him daily, you can rest assured that you are His child.
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)

If you ever doubt, go back to His Word and remember that Jesus already paid the price. Trust Him, and He will guide you.