Starting the Journey

Following Jesus is the most important and life-changing desicion you’ll ever make.

So how do you do start? It’s easier than you may think.

Let me clarify, following Jesus isn’t always easy – but taking the first step isn’t too complicated.

 

First – Admit it. You must start with the raw truth of your current spiritual status…which isn’t very pleasant. The truth is you’re a messed-up sinner that needs a savior. No one can be “good enough” by themslef to please God. You need help – we all do! Face it, you need Jesus to forgive and save you from your sins. I know, hearing that and admitting it can be like a punch to the stomach. It’s true though and you’ve got to start here.

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s

glorious standard.” Romans 3:23

 

Second – Believe it. This second part may seem a little obvious, but it can’t be overlooked. Nothing will happen if you don’t believe. In other words, you must have faith in Jesus: that he is the Son of God, that he lived a sinless life, that he’s real and what he said and did really happened, that he died for you and that God raised him from the dead, that he’s able to forgive all your sins and your past, and you must believe that Jesus is able to transform your heart into something new.

        “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” Acts 16:31

 

Third – Say it. Once you’ve done the first two parts, put them together in the form of a prayer and offer it to God. You don’t have to use certainwords or be in a special place. God will hear you wherever you are.

     “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.”

Romans 10:9-10

 

But how do you do it? There isn’t a magic spell or special phrases to chant. Whether you do this by yourself in your living room or at a church with someon else – as long as you include all three of the parts just mentioned, and mean it…God will hear you and accept your prayer.

 

It might sound something like this…

 

Dear God, I admit that I’m a sinner. I also realize that You love me and sent your Son to rescue me from death and hell. I believe in Jesus and that he came and died for me and was raised from the dead.

I’ve messed up a lot and have said and done some pretty bad things. Please forgive me of all my sins and save me. Give me a new heart. Now, I make a commitment to follow you and to live the rest of my life trusting you. Help me live a life that honors you. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

 

*Please note: there is no “official prayer” to quote or memorize. There is no prayer like that in the Bible – it’s just implied. But there are certain things to include when making the deiscion. The above is an example prayer to serve as a guide. Feel free to pray to God using your own words.

Seek out a mature Christian if you still have questions.