feeling confuse

[castielfan04]

I've been wanting to have a deeper relationship with God but I'm still confused on how.

My boyfriend's sister-in-law gave me this advice:

"If you put Christ first in all that you do Crystal, all of the things you are wanting will follow after. Why? Not necessarily because you did it in the right order, but because you were willing to "sacrifice" the things that you really want in order to put God first in your life. God enjoys giving His children good gifts! Remember that! ♥"

So how do I know I am putting God first in everything? Like at work, with my friends or other relationships, etc. Will I been thinking of what God would want me to do before each action? I pray every day and go to church when I can considering I work the nightshift and sometimes I work over, like past 9 a.m. I'm read the Bible and devotion books to guide me but I still feel I should be doing more.

 

[WithLoveFromAlyssa]

The first step to become a Christian is to understand what the term “Christian” means. The origin of the term “Christian” was in the city of Antioch in the first century A.D. (see Acts 11:26). It is possible that, at first, the term “Christian” was intended to be an insult. The word essentially means “little Christ.” However, over the centuries, believers in Christ have adopted the term “Christian” and use it to identify themselves as followers of Jesus Christ. A simple definition of a Christian is a person who follows Jesus Christ.

Why should I become a Christian?

Jesus Christ declared that He “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). The question then arises – why did we need to be ransomed? The idea of a ransom is a payment that must be made in exchange for the release of a person. The idea of a ransom is most frequently used in instances of kidnapping, when someone is kidnapped and held prisoner until a ransom is paid for the person’s release.

Jesus paid our ransom to free us from bondage! Bondage from what? Bondage to sin and its consequences, physical death followed by eternal separation from God. Why did Jesus need to pay this ransom? Because we are all infected with sin (Romans 3:23), and are therefore worthy of judgment from God (Romans 6:23). How did Jesus pay our ransom? By dying on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21). How could Jesus’ death sufficiently pay for all of our sins? Jesus was God in human form, God come to earth to become one of us so He could identify with us and die for our sins (John 1:1,14). As God, Jesus’ death was infinite in value, sufficient to pay for the sins of the entire world (1 John 2:2). Jesus’ resurrection after His death demonstrated that His death was the sufficient sacrifice, that He had truly conquered sin and death.

How can I become a Christian?

This is the best part. Because of His love for us, God has made it exceedingly simple to become a Christian. All you have to do is receive Jesus as your Savior, fully accepting His death as the sufficient sacrifice for your sins (John 3:16), fully trusting Him alone as your Savior (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Becoming a Christian is not all about rituals, going to church, or doing certain things while refraining from other things. Becoming a Christian is all about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ, through faith, is what makes a person a Christian.

Are you ready to become a Christian?

If you are ready to become a Christian by receiving Jesus Christ as your Savior, all you have to do is believe. Do you understand and believe that you have sinned and are worthy of judgment from God? Do you understand and believe that Jesus took your punishment upon Himself, dying in your place? Do you understand and believe that His death was the sufficient sacrifice to pay for your sins? If your answers to these three questions are yes, then simply place your trust in Jesus as your Savior. Receive Him, by faith, fully trusting in Him alone. That is all it takes to become a Christian!

Have you made a decision to become a Christian because of what you have read here? If so, please CONTINUE reading :

Congratulations! You have made a life-changing decision! Perhaps you are asking, “Now what? How do I begin my journey with God?” The five steps mentioned below will give you direction from the Bible. When you have questions on your journey, please visit Bible Questions Answered.

1. Make sure you understand salvation.

1 John 5:13 tells us, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” God wants us to understand salvation. God wants us to have the confidence of knowing for sure that we are saved. Briefly, let’s go over the key points of salvation:

(a) We have all sinned. We have all done things that are displeasing to God (Romans 3:23).

(b) Because of our sin, we deserve to be punished with eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23).

(c) Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus died in our place, taking the punishment that we deserved. His resurrection proved that Jesus’ death was sufficient to pay for our sins.

(d) God grants forgiveness and salvation to all those who place their faith in Jesus – trusting His death as the payment for our sins (John 3:16; Romans 5:1; Romans 8:1).

That is the message of salvation! If you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior, you are saved! All of your sins are forgiven, and God promises to never leave you or forsake you (Romans 8:38-39; Matthew 28:20). Remember, your salvation is secure in Jesus Christ (John 10:28-29). If you are trusting in Jesus alone as your Savior, you can have confidence that you will spend eternity with God in heaven!

2. Find a good church that teaches the Bible.

Don’t think of the church as a building. The church is the people. It is very important that believers in Jesus Christ fellowship with one another. That is one of the primary purposes of the church. Now that you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ, we strongly encourage you to find a Bible-believing church in your area and speak to the pastor. Let him know about your new faith in Jesus Christ.

A second purpose of the church is to teach the Bible. You can learn how to apply God’s instructions to your life. Understanding the Bible is key to living a successful and powerful Christian life. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

A third purpose of the church is worship. Worship is thanking God for all He has done! God has saved us. God loves us. God provides for us. God guides and directs us. How could we not thank Him? God is holy, righteous, loving, merciful, and full of grace. Revelation 4:11 declares, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”

3. Set aside time each day to focus on God.

It is very important for us to spend time each day focusing on God. Some people call this a “quiet time.” Others call it “devotions,” because it is a time when we devote ourselves to God. Some prefer to set aside time in the mornings, while others prefer the evenings. It does not matter what you call this time or when you do it. What matters is that you regularly spend time with God. What events make up our time with God?

(a) Prayer. Prayer is simply talking to God. Talk to God about your concerns and problems. Ask God to give you wisdom and guidance. Ask God to provide for your needs. Tell God how much you love Him and how much you appreciate all He does for you. That is what prayer is all about.

(b) Bible Reading. In addition to being taught the Bible in church, Sunday School, and/or Bible studies – you need to be reading the Bible for yourself. The Bible contains everything you need to know in order to live a successful Christian life. It contains God’s guidance for how to make wise decisions, how to know God’s will, how to minister to others, and how to grow spiritually. The Bible is God’s Word to us. The Bible is essentially God’s instruction manual for how to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to Him and satisfying to us.

4. Develop relationships with people who can help you spiritually.

1 Corinthians 15:33 tells us, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” The Bible is full of warnings about the influence “bad” people can have on us. Spending time with those who engage in sinful activities will cause us to be tempted by those activities. The character of those we are around will “rub off” on us. That is why it is so important to surround ourselves with other people who love the Lord and are committed to Him.

Try to find a friend or two, perhaps from your church, who can help you and encourage you (Hebrews 3:13; 10:24). Ask your friends to keep you accountable in regard to your quiet time, your activities, and your walk with God. Ask if you can do the same for them. This does not mean you have to give up all your friends who do not know the Lord Jesus as their Savior. Continue to be their friend and love them. Simply let them know that Jesus has changed your life and you cannot do all the same things you used to do. Ask God to give you opportunities to share Jesus with your friends.

5. Be baptized.

Many people have a misunderstanding of baptism. The word “baptize” means to immerse in water. Baptism is the Biblical way of publicly proclaiming your new faith in Christ and your commitment to follow Him. The action of being immersed in the water illustrates being buried with Christ. The action of coming out of the water pictures Christ’s resurrection. Being baptized is identifying yourself with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4).

Baptism is not what saves you. Baptism does not wash away your sins. Baptism is simply a step of obedience, a public proclamation of your faith in Christ alone for salvation. Baptism is important because it is a step of obedience – publicly declaring faith in Christ and your commitment to Him. If you are ready to be baptized, you should speak with a pastor.



- Bible Questions Answered
How can I become a Christian?
I have just put my faith in Jesus…now what?

 

[castielfan04]

Thanks that is helpful... but I forgot to mention that I am saved, even thought there had been times I've questioned it but these past 3 years my belief that I am save has grown. c: I just feel I should be doing more is all... and sometimes wonder if I'm not putting God first in my life. Like when I'm hanging out with my friends or at work or maybe out with my boyfriend and its not a church day.... during those moments I'm thinking of what I am currently doing but I am wondering if I should be thinking of God instead or more of him. I mean is really possible to think of God with EVERY action you do?

 

[1watchman]

Thanks that is helpful... but I forgot to mention that I am saved, even thought there had been times I've questioned it but these past 3 years my belief that I am save has grown. c: I just feel I should be doing more is all... and sometimes wonder if I'm not putting God first in my life. Like when I'm hanging out with my friends or at work or maybe out with my boyfriend and its not a church day.... during those moments I'm thinking of what I am currently doing but I am wondering if I should be thinking of God instead or more of him. I mean is really possible to think of God with EVERY action you do?

Thank you for exalting Jesus. At first I was thinking here is just another follower after God's ways. Many professing Christians are only disciples of His ways, but now you have stated your faith in Jesus Christ --the only way of salvation and the new life in God.

As to your concerns about "thinking of God", you will find as your go forward that the more you commune with the Lord Jesus, you will be richer in your faith with joy, peace, and His blessings. We are exhorted to bring "...into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" as God says. He loves to have us exalt His beloved Son.

If you visit the good site at biblecounsel.homestead.com I believe you can grow and mature in the faith in a scriptural way, and not get entangled in various religions. Look up always!

 

[Emmy]

Dear castielfan04. To think like Jesus is to become like Jesus, and we know that Jesus is Love. Jesus told us in Matthew 22, verses 35-40: " The first and great Commandment is " Love God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. The second is like it: Love thy neighbour as thyself." It is Love and Joy we want. Jesus told us: " Ask and ye shall be given." ( Matthew 7, verses 7-8)
Then we thank God and share all Love and Joy with all around us.
( our neighbour) Love is a Christian`s great weapon, Love will overcome all enmity and ill-will. We are God`s only representatives in this imperfect world.
Just follow your heart and have love and care for all you know and all you meet. God will see your efforts to be loving and caring, and God will approve,
and bless you. Why? Because you are following God`s Commandment to love.
I say this with love, castielfan. Greetings from Emmy, your sister in Christ.

 

[Harry3142]

castielfan04-

A way to tell if you are putting God first is to examine your words and actions. What are the motivations behind them? If the motivations are 'in synch' with what God wants of us, then you know that you're doing what God wants of you.

St. Paul gave us two lists of motivations in one of the passages he wrote. But one list identifies those motivations which are at the core of our sinful nature, while the other list identifies those motivations which are at the core of our new nature as Christians:

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. (Galatians 5:16-26,NIV)

If what we say and do has as its motivation one of those listed as 'the acts of the sinful nature', then the words and actions must be seen as sinful. But if what we say and do has as its motivation one of those listed as 'the fruit of the Spirit', then the words and actions can be seen as conforming to what God wants of us.

Remember the saying, "He did all the right things, but for all the wrong reasons." In order for our words and actions to conform to God's will, the underlying reason for those words and actions must also conform to God's will. And that is accomplished through our permitting 'the fruit of the Spirit' to be the impetus for all that we say and do.

God bless-

 

[Peripatetic]

Putting God first is important, but we still have to remember to keep balance in our lives. Some people take the "everything to the glory of God" concept too literally, and try too hard for every action be specifically about God.

Yes, we should pray, read the Bible, go to church, etc. But when you work hard or use your talents for a hobby or spend time with your family or even take a rest... those too can be to the glory of God without trying to force them to be.

Proper balance also includes being others-focused too. It's in our nature to be selfish, so being generous with our time, money, kindness, and encouragement will help to bring you closer to God (and feel pretty good at the same time).

 

[PureDose]

I've been wanting to have a deeper relationship with God but I'm still confused on how.

My boyfriend's sister-in-law gave me this advice:

"If you put Christ first in all that you do Crystal, all of the things you are wanting will follow after. Why? Not necessarily because you did it in the right order, but because you were willing to "sacrifice" the things that you really want in order to put God first in your life. God enjoys giving His children good gifts! Remember that! ♥"

So how do I know I am putting God first in everything? Like at work, with my friends or other relationships, etc. Will I been thinking of what God would want me to do before each action? I pray every day and go to church when I can considering I work the nightshift and sometimes I work over, like past 9 a.m. I'm read the Bible and devotion books to guide me but I still feel I should be doing more.

I think it is important to remember that there is nothing we can give to God which He does not already have, and anything God asks us to believe or do or say from that belief is for us.

This may be why God through Jesus asked us to 'seek and you will find'.

I am not disagreeing with your grandmother, but just pointing out that there is good to be found from God.

It is perfectly okay to "do" because one does not have, because then that is seeking.

What we can seek on is endless.

But ultimately it is about the soul rising to Heaven.

 

[Shulamite7]

I've been wanting to have a deeper relationship with God but I'm still confused on how.

My boyfriend's sister-in-law gave me this advice:

"If you put Christ first in all that you do Crystal, all of the things you are wanting will follow after. Why? Not necessarily because you did it in the right order, but because you were willing to "sacrifice" the things that you really want in order to put God first in your life. God enjoys giving His children good gifts! Remember that! ♥"

So how do I know I am putting God first in everything? Like at work, with my friends or other relationships, etc. Will I been thinking of what God would want me to do before each action? I pray every day and go to church when I can considering I work the nightshift and sometimes I work over, like past 9 a.m. I'm read the Bible and devotion books to guide me but I still feel I should be doing more.

I disagree with your boyfriend's sister-in-law when she said that God will give you all your wants if you place Him first in your life. He does not give us all that we WANT when we seek Christ first but He does give us all that we NEED. Sometimes what we want might not be good for us. Our Lord knows what is best for us and He works out everything for the good of those who love Him.

 

[Gregory Thompson]

God is love. (1st John)

If you put what the bible describes love as first in everything .. then your relationships will follow in the pattern of restoration.

 

[timf]

There is more to the Christian life than just going to church. You may want to consider walking by the Spirit.

Christian Pioneer - How do you walk in the Spirit?

 

[DiscipleHeLovesToo]

(Joh 10:27 KJVR) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
(Joh 10:28 KJVR) And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.



(Joh 17:3 KJVR)And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.



there have been times in my life when i wondered if i was reborn; what settled this for me was the realization that i would not have any proof in this life - i simply have to take God's word for this.



(Col 2:4 KJVR) And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.
(Col 2:5 KJVR) For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
(Col 2:6 KJVR) As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
(Col 2:7 KJVR) Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
(Col 2:8 KJVR) Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (emphasis added)



so when i had terminal cancer, and saw the cancer disappear over time, i began to wonder how i would know that i was truly and fully healed. Col 2:6 was my answer. i have no concrete evidence that i am reborn; i simply must take God's word for this; if i walk in Christ as i received Him, then although I have no concrete evidence that i am healed of cancer; i simply must take God's word for this.


then one day John 17:3 exploded in my head - eternal life is knowing God - this word 'knowing' implies relationship, and relationship requires a dialog. i had heard others talk about 'hearing from God', even having conversations with Him - but all i thought i had was what i read in the Bible.


but i realized that John 10:27 says that i hear His voice and follow it; this didn't fit my experience and so i was confused for a time - how do i recognize God's voice? since Jesus said i do hear Him and follow Him, then even though i see no evidence of this i must believe it by faith (as i received Him).


i heard a preacher say that we need to practice hearing from God in everyday things that don't seem to have serious consequences, so that we will be able to hear from Him when we have to make a decision when the consequences are really serious - such as whether to buy this house or that one, or to have an operation or not.


so i began some simple exercises. i began to practice hearing from God by faith that i do in things that don't have serious consequences. things like how much toothpaste to put on the brush; whether to turn right or go straight on the way to work, whether to order a hamburger or a salad (He doesn't always lead me to order the salad by the way). i tried to ask 'yes/no' questions to make it easier for me to discern the answer.



(Luk 1:3 KJVR) It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
(Luk 1:4 KJVR) That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed. (emphasis added)



over time, i began to perceive His 'voice'; i began to be able to perceive what 'seemed good', and to believe by faith that this was God. knowing that His leading will never violate His written word, I use this as a guide to recognize His voice as opposed to the devil's voice.


what God wants from us is fellowship; He wants us to know Him.


i began to realize that there were no decisions that i could make on my own - even going to church - i need to check with God about everything. but of course there are times when i don't - but i've realized that if i am striving to be conscious of His continual presence with me, what 'seems good' will generally be His leading.


then one day i had a conversation with God. it was so un-spectacular that i didn't even realizing that we were having a conversation at first. as i meditated on this, i realized that i had been conversing with God all along, ever since i received spiritual rebirth.


so my advice is to begin exercising your faith that you hear His voice in little things, and trust Him that if you are striving to be aware of His continual presence, that by faith, you are following His leading.

 

[tbogunro]

Thanks that is helpful... but I forgot to mention that I am saved, even thought there had been times I've questioned it but these past 3 years my belief that I am save has grown. c: I just feel I should be doing more is all... and sometimes wonder if I'm not putting God first in my life. Like when I'm hanging out with my friends or at work or maybe out with my boyfriend and its not a church day.... during those moments I'm thinking of what I am currently doing but I am wondering if I should be thinking of God instead or more of him. I mean is really possible to think of God with EVERY action you do?

You might not know this but the devil is the one accusing you of not doing enough. The devil is called our accuser and no matter what he will always say you aren't doing enough. If you seek God for hours, the devil will always point out every mistake and tell you that so and so is doing more, then if you do less he will say God doesn't like you for not doing enough. It's a lose lose situation with the devil. God loves you no matter what and you can't prove yourself to God because he knows everything about you and your love for him! Relax and enjoy God's love for you and let that love transform you from the inside out. We are natural sinners and God is the only one who can help and change us, so don't listen to the devil...hang out with friends or boyfriend and enjoy the blessings God is giving you! BTW your title of this thread says it all...God doesn't give use the spirit of confusion but of love, peace, self-control, and patience...so the fact that you're feeling confused says that it's the devil behind it! RELAX RELAX RELAX and don't overthink just enjoy God's love and watch when people start noticing a positive change in you!

 

[Alive_Again]

God wants us to have holy desires. Many of the things we want to do for Him are from Him. It's important to keep your focus on God and receive the "leaven" of the kingdom. Start praising the Lord and make praise/worship and thanksgiving a lifestyle.

You'll need to control what goes into your "gates" (ears, eyes, mouth). Take a serious look at the things of the world. Many of the world's movies, TV shows, etc. are inspired by the enemy. They are full of traps. They start out innocent enough, but often have fornication in them. Horror movies are a big no-no.

The world's music is also ful of traps to get you to say certain "corrupt" or "froward" things from your lips. We are snared by the words of our mouths. What you give up for God, He can fill. You always get more than you give up. The Word says that the things we leave behind are esteemed as "dung" compared to what we receive in Christ.

We're a garden full of dirt. What goes in determines the harvest you'll get. If you want holy desires from God and a peaceful walk fulfilling them (where you're walking in resurrection life, not just "dying"), then stayed tuned in to God. Meditate on the Word. Keep anointed music on a lot. Fellowship with those in the light, not your unsaved friends from what should be the past.

These are all things God wants to work in your life if He hasn't already. The whole "old friends" things for new believers is something God wants to address and He wants your life holy and separated unto Him.