What Happens Now? Where do I Go From Here?

Just as a way of reminder, let us review what God has done for us already? He has given us a new heart, one that is desiring to please Him, and is sensitive to spiritual things. Then, He has also given us a new record and removed our guilt and shame. We are declared righteous by God because of Jesus. Lastly, He has given us a new life that is purposeful, productive and becoming more like the character of Jesus.

God also provides the means whereby we may continue to grow as Christians. Here are some essential ingredients that you will want to add to your life now.

First, God has given you the Bible. Make a practice of reading one chapter from the Bible each day. Where should I begin to read? The Gospel of John is an excellent place to start because it will give to you a clear understanding of the life of Jesus. Is there a particular version of the Bible that I must read. No. But we recommend that you try reading the New King James Version because it gives you a sense of the majestic while being also very readable.

As you read your Bible you might want to underline or highlight statements or verses that are especially meaningful to you. It is even good to write down some thoughts on another sheet of paper as you are reading. This way if you have questions, you will have them available to ask another Christian. The Bible is a principle way that God speaks to you.

Second, God has given you prayer. This is the way we talk to God. It completes the loop of the conversation. God speaks to us through the Bible. We speak back to Him in prayer. You can pray at any time, in any place, about any subject that comes to mind. There is no secret formula to prayer, no special words or language that have to be said in order for God to hear you. Listen to a couple of promises that come from the Bible about prayer:

NKJ Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

NKJ Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

NKJ Matthew 21:22 And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.

Here is a little acronym that can serve as a reminder of the types of things you can talk to God about when you pray. It is A-C-T-S.

Adoration - Tell God the qualities that you appreciate about Him, e.g. He is love, just, holy, our helper, our strength, our healer, our provider, etc.

Confession - Ask God for His forgiveness as you think of the ways you have continued to disobey Him.

Thanksgiving - Thank God for answers to prayer or any and all the good gifts He has given you, beginning with your salvation.

Supplication - Ask God for His help in every area of life. God delights in those who fear Him and who hope in His mercy.

Third, God has given us worship. Another important means of grace is the worship of God with other Christians. Our church is made up of people who are very similar to you. All of us are sinners who have been saved by grace. We still fall short of the glory of God even though we desire to please God in all of our ways.

The Bible commands us to join together with other Christians. There is a special blessing that God gives in such assemblies. Can't I worship God in a park by myself? Yes, you can worship God at any time and in any place, but that is not a substitute for gathering with other Christians each Sunday in worship. It is at such times that we can sing God's praises, have God speak to us through the Bible and the sermon, and respond to Him in prayer and confession.

Let us invite you, if you live in the Baltimore County/ Harford County area to come and worship with us. You can get directions from our Maps page or by calling us at 410-593-9940.

Fourth, God gives us other Christians with whom we can fellowship, spend time with and receive help from. We learn from each other. The Bible says: NKJ Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.

A church family is so important in this respect. There are friendships that you can build which will serve to strengthen your faith, help you with your burdens, and to whom you can begin to be a blessing yourself. Your questions, enthusiasm for God, and new insights are a welcome addition to a church family. God has a purpose for your life and you will begin to discover that in the context of a church family.

Last, God gives us the opportunity to share what Christ has done for us with others. In fact, it would be a good idea if you were to tell someone in your family, or a friend, or someone at work what God has done in your life. God can use you to share with them the truths of the Bible and point them to God and Jesus.

Please let us know about what God has done in your life, your experience in finding a church family and what you are learning from the Bible. We would be glad to pray for you and with you and send you additional literature that will help you in your Christian experience.