RU Seeking advice for a new Christian?

I’ll let you into a secret. When I first became a Christian, I felt as though I was suddenly wearing 3D glasses. The world began to make sense in ways I never imagined. I wanted to know more and learn fast.

My experience of learning was through study and, thankfully, I recognised that the key to the study was the Bible. But it was huge, and I was eager to know everything I possibly could in record time! I reverted to what I’d always done. Research, study, revise. It still felt a long way to go and frustration crept in. I felt I wasn’t gaining the information quick enough, so I did what I thought was necessary when you prepare for an exam last minute. I looked for a shortened version of the Bible: A Nutshells Study Guide! I can say this was a turning point. When I didn’t find a quick fix to my problem, I finally understood that all the head knowledge in the world wasn’t going to bring me into a relationship with God.  It might have seemed obvious to those around me but not to me at that time.

With this in mind, we asked for the Rise Up team’s recommendations for those new to faith as well as those who are seeking more of God in their lives: -

Gill Trevor:

My advice is to get to know Jesus for yourself through the bible with the help of the Holy Spirit and a good Christian mentor.

Jo Pearse

It’s important to get connected with other believers as community is vital. Also, get involved and read the Word. It might also be helpful to watch the film, “The Chosen” to learn about the context of Jesus’ life.

Lou Ray

Invest time being with the Lord alone without a tick box agenda. Read some scripture, listen to a song, or get outside and don’t try and achieve anything. Sit in peace and be a dearly loved child. Learning is obviously important and hopefully someone is helping you with that, but letting our hearts and minds be transformed, means that slowing down is essential.

Gill Bough

Enjoy Jesus and pursue relationship with Him above everything else.

Clare Cleave

Try and spend some time every day, preferably at the start, and read some of the Bible. Use notes that are helpful and pray, being honest with God about where you are at and how feeling – he knows anyway. Put on some worship music and worship Him each day. Spend time focused upon the Lord.

To summarise, there is nothing better than enjoying time with the Lord. Creating space within your day and committing it to Him. During that precious time, read your Bible asking the Holy Spirit to guide you and reveal His mysteries to you. Read with your spirit and heart as well as your head. Fill your home or car with music of praise and notice the atmospheres around you change. Get involved with other Christians, especially those with an experienced walk with the Lord who can guide and mentor you. Serve in church or in a faith-based community setting but always remember to find a balance as this should never replace your own time with God.