Spiritual Growth: Understanding Your Relationship with Jesus Christ

Written by iamnext.com

The simple act of sincerely asking Jesus to come into your life makes your relationship with God secure. You’ve embarked on a life of adventure with an all-loving, all-powerful God.So what happened when you invited Jesus into your life?

1. He forgave your sin

“[God] is so rich in kindness that he purchased our freedom through the blood of his Son, and our sins are forgiven.” (Ephesians 1:7)

All your sins-past, present and future-have been forgiven because of Jesus’ death on the cross.

2. He made you a child of God

“But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn! This is not a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan-this rebirth comes from God.” (John 1:12,13)

3. He came into your life and will never leave you

[Jesus speaking] “And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Questions about faith? Bring your doubts
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[Jesus speaking] “Those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them.” (John 6:37)

4. He gave you new life

“Those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

You have a chance to start over, to begin a new spiritual life. God will develop new qualities in you as you get to know Him better.

5. He gave you eternal life

“And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. So whoever has God’s Son has life; whoever does not have his Son does not have life. I write this to you who believe in the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life .” (1 John 5:11- 13)

Eternal life began for you from the moment you became a Christian. That’s when God became a part of your life forever. If you die tonight, you will go to spend eternity with Him.

All these benefits are possible only through Jesus Christ. None of them can be earned. You received them the moment you put your faith in Him.

Dealing with Doubts

Once you’ve made a decision, it’s natural to have doubts. Tomorrow, you may not “feel” like a Christian.

Remember, though, that many things affect our feelings-friends, health, weather and more. Don’t gauge your relationship with Jesus by your emotions, which may change. Instead, trust in God and the truths set out in the Bible, which don’t change.

Suggestions for Further Growth

Throughout this week, reflect on one of the five truths you’ve just read. Read the accompanying verses and thank God for each one of these truths.

If you don’t already have a Bible, you can get one from your local Canadian Bible Society outlet or Christian bookstore. The New Living Translation Bible uses modern English. Ask a minister for other suggestions. You can also call New Life Resources at 1-800-667-0558 to order a Bible.

Tell someone this week that you have begun a relationship with Jesus.

Summary

Because you’ve accepted Jesus, your relationship with God is secure. You are his child. He forgave your sins and gave you a new and eternal life. He will never leave you. When facing doubts about your decision, rely on these and other truths in the Bible, not on your feelings.

Next Lesson: What happens when you struggle and fall short in your efforts to live the Christian life? >>

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