So its very simple. Don't beat yourself up anymore about your shortcomings. Try to do better and ask Jesus to help you. But don't get feeling better than anyone else either. Stay humble and God will hear you. Get haughty and he will turn you off.
You may think that there is some secret or proper way to pray to the Lord. Praying is simply pouring out your heart to God. He knows your heart, but he still likes to hear it from you. And the best prayers to the Lord come directly from the heart. They are not long winded or fancy. Know that God loves you and listens to the humble of heart. Don't ask for silver and gold, or cars, houses, and clothes. Pray for spiritual things; for a family member to be healed, a friend to come to the Lord. Ask him for peace and understanding. Seek righteousness from him and he will take care of your physical needs as well. Never pray to harm or put down another person! Love is the head of all things. Love your enemies, Jesus said. Do good to them who spitefully use you. This is the Spirit you are of, so pray that the Lord increase you in it.
This is the point where you are usually told to find a church and join it. This is simply because, it is the most likely place for you to find other believers. But here is a word of caution. You will also find there people who will try to shake your faith and cause you to stumble. You should know this before you plant your feet in any church. You will find some great Christians there, and you will find the worst, and all of those who are in between. Never look to man or woman for your faith. Keep your mind on Jesus and you will never be swayed by foolish people.
Where should you look for a church? What denomination? How can you tell if that church is the right one for you? Well, there are no easy answers to those questions. I would suggest to you that you pray that the Lord lead you like a lamp in the darkness. You should understand some things about any church that you plan to attend. Information abounds on what denominations believe. You can look up the doctrines of most churches on the web. You can also talk to the minister of a church. Just remember. You are a child of God. Don't be led about by man. Don't associate yourself with a controlling cult or any individual who attempts to run your life for you. Jesus will help you with your life. You have no need of another earthly father. The biggest mistake a new Christian can make is to allow religion to take the place of Jesus. You are sufficient in him.
It is a daunting task to read the Bible, but it is good to know the Word of God. At first it may be frustrating to you. The Bible speaks of times, places, and people who lived thousands of years ago. The names are hard to pronounce. The customs and ideas will be alien to you. Some parts you will get into and not want to put down. Others may seem quite boring. But given a year or so of such reading, things will begin to make sense to you. Many of these things will fall into place. Remember, this is the written holy word of God. It deserves your attention and your respect. There are also some good materials for you to read that will help you get a grasp on the Bible. You will find some of them under the Reference link at the bottom of this page.
You can learn to walk a good walk with Jesus. He is for you, not against you. If you seek him out he will abide with you. But stay humble before him and include him in all that is within your heart. May God bless you as you begin your new life in Jesus Christ. Every day is brighter than the day before. Trust him and obey him, for he is worthy.
© 2000 Orion N. Briel [email protected]