A 30-DAY GUIDE FOR NEW BELIEVERS
by JOHN D. BECKETT
DAY 8 WHY 30 DAYS?
When will the good changes begin?
When we make any kind of significant change in our lives, the first 30 days are critical. Studies show it takes this long to shed an old habit, or establish a new one.
I mention this now to encourage you to press on with this study. Let the "habit" of studying God's word, His character and His ways become well rooted. In the remaining three weeks we'll consider several more topics that are essential to forming a firm spiritual foundation and walking out the new life in Christ. These 30 days are the first installment in your adventure of a lifetime.
The reality is that you, as a new believer, can be pulled off course in a number of ways. Let's look at two major challenges and how you might respond.
The pull of family and friends who don't understand. In coming to Christ you've made a radical choice, the implications of which are just hitting you. Regardless of how much or how little you've said to others, they are bound to notice early indicators of your changed life. Some will be interested to know more -- an opportunity to share your faith. Others will be antagonistic. They may mock you or whisper behind your back. It's important to realize it's not you, but Christ in you, that has them agitated. There is power in Christ, and that power draws a reaction from others.
The best course is not to try to explain yourself or be defensive. Instead let Christ, Who now lives in you, love them through you. In time they may change, or possibly go their own way. But whatever you do, don't let others pull you back into your old ways.
A sense of shame you feel about things that aren't right in your life. Maybe you're in an illicit or unhealthy relationship, or abusing your body with harmful drugs. You may have long-standing issues with excessive use of alcohol or any number of other habits that aren't easily shaken. You may be saying, "I can't make it in the new life," or, "I'm not good enough," or, "There's no way I can change who I am." Please -- don't give in to these thoughts. If you stay the course, the day will come when, with the Lord's help, you will be able to break free from the habits that pull you down. Take your concerns to Jesus. Talk with Him -- friend to friend. After all, He knows all about you, and He took you to Himself just as you were. He loves you just as you are. Change is working from the inside out.
Press through for the next several weeks. I'm confident you will start seeing some amazing victories, both in yourself and even in the people and circumstances around you.
Key Scripture He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).
Key Thought I will hold closely to the Lord today, and not worry about tomorrow.
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Copyright © 2006 by John D. Beckett
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