Do you need to go to church every Sunday for a few years first? Should you do a good deed every day for 6 months first? Should you stop smoking and eating fast food first? Should you go to therapy and “clean up your act” first?
No.
There is nothing you need to do, but believe that Jesus came down to save every single one of us, because
God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
(John 3:16)
Don’t think you are less deserving of God’s grace, which is a gift of love He willing gives to you. You are not more unworthy, because, hey, none of us is worthy to receive this grace:
…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…
Romans 3:23
Every single one of us needs the salvation that Christ brings through His death and resurrection. He paid the price of our sins—every single sin that we made or will make. All you have to do is acknowledge that you need to be saved from sin just like everyone else, and tell Jesus, “Thank you, for being my Saviour. Teach me more about how to be like You!”
Salvation comes in a moment, thanks to God. Then the exciting journey begins, where God shows you how to live a life rich in love, equipped for all sorts of trials. Yes, you will still face difficult times as a Christian, but you won’t do it alone. God has your back and walks in front of you. He will also send other people to walk alongside you, so through His strength and the support of His people, you can face life with the confidence and joy from knowing nothing is beyond His reach.
And everything about you matters to Him! Each little thing. So, pray to Him constantly. He is really listening. Sometimes He grants your prayers so quickly, it makes your head spin, but other times, He wants you to learn something first, and the way He’ll grant your prayer might be not what you asked for, but it will be aligned with His will and plan for you. And His plans for your life are good:
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Go ahead! Take that leap of faith! Talk to a trusted friend or pastor about it. Have them pray with you.
Choosing to follow Jesus not only leads to eternal life, but also a life that is lived to the fullest.
Rath Dé ort! (Grace of God to you)
Cait