These answers are common but unfortunate. They demonstrate that the person is looking to their works, the good they do and the bad they avoid, for their assurance. There’s no assurance of salvation in that. In fact, if we think we can earn eternal life, we can be sure we won’t.

I hope your answer is,

      “Yes, by the grace of God!”

This answer looks solely to God through the work of Jesus Christ. We’re saved by God’s love and Jesus’ work, not ours. You don’t need to “hope” it’s true or think about how good or bad you are. That’s irrelevant because salvation is only by grace through faith apart from our works.

So, are you going to heaven? “Yes, by the grace of God!!”

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for saving me by Your grace. If it depended on my works, I would have no hope. When doubt enters my mind, remind me of Your promise and remind me that my salvation rests on You alone.

Amen