New Believer #3

1. Tell me about your journey to faith in Christ?
I was raised in a Christian family. Went to church and was “saved” at a young age. I never really had a relationship with Christ, just did the motions. It wasn’t until I left home and found Jesus for myself that I truly became a Christian.
2. What helped you the most to step over the line and make the commitment?
I realized who Jesus was on my own. He wasn’t forced on me. I wasn’t made to go to church. It was a decision that I made. And he waited for me.
3. What has been the best part of becoming a Christ follower to you?
I have someone who is always there for me. All I have to do is pray to him and he’s there. He never leaves me.
4. What has been the most challenging part of following Christ?
Changing some sinful lifestyles.
5. What do you think is helping you grow the most in your faith?
Going to a church and becoming involved with fellowship and small groups. I’ve met friends who hold me accountable.
6. What advice do you have for me in helping others like you to grow in their faith?
Don’t push people to have a relationship with Jesus. Let them come to him on their own. Make him available but don’t cram him down their throat.

I find a lot of people have been “forced” to go to church and have a “relationship” with Jesus. This person is very similar to my childhood best friend. Her dad was a strong Christian. Her mom never went to church. Her father made my best friend go every Sunday, even though she didn’t want to. She didn’t like church so therefore she never took the time to understand who Jesus was. Up until this present day, she will not go because she was forced to go for so long when she didn’t want to. Jesus stands at the door and waits. In the bible, we never see him forcing himself on people. He is patient and kind. I think a lot of times if we were the same way people would see Jesus in us and want to know why we are different. In the world we live in today, people want something that isn’t going to change. They long for permanence and stability. That is what is found in Jesus. He never changes, he’s always the same. And if we mess up, he doesn’t leave us. It’s typical that this person has some problems changing their lifestyle. You know what? God doesn’t expect us to be perfect. He says “come to me as you are.” It’s through him and through getting to know him that we are changed. It doesn’t happen over night. This person found a great help in getting involved with a church. She has made Christian friends that hold her accountable for her actions and encourage her on her walk. This is key. It’s hard to become a Christian and be successful on your own. Everyone needs someone else in their life. Her advice related back to her story. You can’t force someone to meet Jesus. They have to do it on their own. We all know, only his timing is perfect.