New Believers

Recently I wrote about a great day that I had. Two people dear to me had felt the hand of God. One dear friend, after years of thinking, wrestling and seeking - accepted God into their heart. The other a precious family member re-dedicated their life to Christ.

So the question for me became - what should a new believer do? My mind went immediately to Mark 4 and the Parable of the sower:

seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away.

I did not want this work of God to wither. What should they do to protect themselves from this. There are a few critical things -

1. Find a good church. Get planted, take root, don't be a spectator but a participant. I have said it before, I have experienced the greatest growth in recent years in my understanding of the doctrine of the church, than of any other doctrine. More on a good church later.
2. Find a mentor, discipler, a big brother/big sister. You will grow so much faster and so much deeper if you are discipled. Next week I am taking a trip to Gettysburg. While I would love to tour the battlefield, I am ecstatic about the opportunity that I have of being taken on a personal tour by a National Parks historian. Find a tour guide.
3. Develop faithfulness in the disciplines. Bible reading, prayer, devotions, Bible Study, evangelism, meditation, service, worship, church attendance, biblical fellowship, accountability...These are all means of the grace of God for your growth.

This list is not exhaustive, but it is not long. For me simple is good. And this list can be good for your continued advancement in your spiritual walk.

How long will it take you to install this in your life?