Salvation

[Rob Morgan]

Salvation is just the start of a whole new life in Christ. The importance of growing in grace cannot be overemphasized. New Christians need to lean on mature believers and to be nurtured along in the faith with plenty of "tender loving care."

This is especially true because a babe in Christ is very vulnerable to the attacks of Satan. By both open and subtle devices, the devil seeks to disturb his newfound peace. He must be shown how to keep himself in the love of God, how to grow spiritually, and where to find nourishment, instruction, and inner strength.

The Lord wants the young in the faith to mature into fruitful, Spirit-led Christians. From my years of experience in dealing with souls I have developed an outline that I have found most practical in directing the new believer. I'm passing it along to you with the suggestion that you clip it out and place it in the flyleaf of your Bible for future use.

THE NEW CHRISTIAN NEEDS:

DAILY FOOD

The "pure milk of the Word" is the proper formula. lt must be read, studied, and absorbed by reflection and meditation. (2 Timothy 2:1.5;1-Peter 2:2)

FRESH AIR

This is obtained through daily prayer, the "oxygen" of the soul. If you don't get enough of it you will "faint'. (Luke 18:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)

EXERCISE

Get busy in Christian service. Tell others what Christ has done for you. (Psalm 100:2; Matthew 10:32)

REST

This is found by relying on God at all times in simple faith. (Psalm 37:7; Matthew 11:.29)

CLEAN SURROUNDINGS

Avoid evil companions. Stay away from places that soil the heart. (1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Corinthians 6:17)

LOVING CARE

Find a church home where you will benefit from the fellowship and support of other believers. (Hebrews 10:25; 1 John 1:7)

PERIODIC CHECKUPS

Regularly examine your heart and confess all known sin. The Lord's Supper is an excellent time. ln this manner you will "keep yourself in the love of God." 1 Corinthians 11:31; Jude 1:20,21)

As attention is given to these biblical instructions, the new believer will "grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:18)