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Three helpful meditations for new Christians and more mature Christians looking for a refresh.
The period just after becoming a believer can be a little disconcerting. Yes, you are now a believer, however, you may not feel very different. Before I became a Christian, I imagined my salvation experience might be dramatic; something like what Jesus experienced when he was baptised by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17). In this account, the writer details ‘heaven was opened, and he [Jesus] saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him’ (16). Instead, my decision to follow Jesus took place in a small church in Woolwich, southeast London next to a ‘chicken and chips’ shop. Still, something miraculous happened. I was snatched out of the kingdom of darkness, adopted and placed into the kingdom of light. This is what you may be experiencing yourself.
Becoming a believer means you are justified.
Justification: an act of God whereby He pronounces a sinner to be righteous because of that sinner’s faith in Christ.” We are justified, or declared righteous, at the moment of our salvation.
Your sanctification journey has just begun and will continue till Jesus returns. Here are some meditations for you as that journey begins.
Find a church Hebrews 10:25, “do not forsake assembling,
The importance of finding a local assembly to join cannot be overstated.
This means being part of a local group of people where you are known and you know other people.
When trying to find a good local church, it’s good to remember that, just like the people in them, no church is perfect. However, there are many important issues that should be considered when choosing a church. Some people live close to only a few churches, and their choices will be limited, but for others, there are many more options. Be sure to pray about the churches you’re considering, to be sure you’re following the Lord’s leading as you search. Begin your search online, or in a local phone book, to see all of your options. Be especially sure to read a church’s doctrinal statement or statement of belief to find out about their stance on important issues. If from this initial research, a church seems to be good and solid, visit the church (including small groups or Sunday school classes) for several weeks while prayerfully considering whether to join as a member. Listed below are some important things you should consider in your search to find a church.
Commit to prayer 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “pray without ceasing”
Prayer is essential to our spiritual growth, because it develops Christ-likeness, builds our connection with God, and expands our confidence in God. So if we want to be mature believers who bring God glory, then we must be women of prayer. Not to get our way, or to change God’s mind, but to line up our hearts, mind, and will with His.
We recently published an article on prayer that could help you in this area.
You have to continue
Prayer is more than merely talking to God; it is a relationship with God. In fact, praying to God is the most intimate thing you can do in your faith. As we pray, all is laid bare before our heavenly Father. There is nothing you can hide from God when you pray.
But prayer is also educational. When we pray, God reveals Himself to us. As we pray, the Holy Spirit brings long-forgotten Bible verses to our minds that strengthen and encourage us. No wonder our Lord said this:
Men ought always to pray, and not to faint. (Luke 18:1 KJV)
Get serious about the word 2 Timothy 2:15 “Study to show yourself approved unto God”
We are right in the middle of the information age where all kinds of strange doctrines can be found online. In a sense, they are an indication of the end times we are passing through. In 2 Timothy 4:3 we are warned about the end times ‘For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but having itching ears, they shall heap to themselves teachers in accordance with their own lusts.’
In such a time, it’s imperative that whatever you believe is anchored by the word of God. It’s important that you develop a critical and discerning eye. Test everything you hear and be vigilant. Be a Berean.
The Bereans lived in the Greek city of Berea, also called Beroea, in the time of the Apostle Paul, about AD 50. These people, mentioned in Acts 17, are best known for searching and studying the Bible for themselves and not merely accepting what they were taught.
It’s a marathon, not a sprint
All in all, remember that being a Christian is a marathon and not a sprint. You have an amazing life ahead of you which you get to live whilst being in community with the Holy Spirit. Be patient with yourself and always know that you are working from God’s approval and not for his approval. This is why the Gospel is good news!