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"So Now What?" First of all, and this is very important, your salvation is entirely dependant upon Jesus, and what he has done--and not on you, and what you can do. The last thing you want to do is stress out about this, that, and the other thing-- "Am I doing enough? Am I doing it right?" No! That's not what trusting Jesus is all about. Sometimes that's a very hard concept to wrap your mind around, especially if you are coming out of a task-oriented religious system where your performance is tied to your worthiness. It may seem like a foreign idea, but that's NOT how it works with Jesus! (Whew!) So...there is no "list of rules" to follow; the only One to follow is Jesus! But here are some practical ways to begin the process of growing in your love, understanding, and knowledge of Jesus...and keep in mind, most of this will come naturally as you grow in your love for Him. Take some time to get to know him! Pray to him. This just means talking with him; you don't need to worry about where you are, or how you word things, or using special language, or where you put your hands, or anything like that; just talk to him like as you would a friend. Besides being your Lord and your Savior, he desires to be your friend! Read His word, the Bible. You might find it helpful to get ahold of a modern translation that is easy to read. You don't have to, of course, but many people do find it helpful. And contrary to what you might have been taught, most of the standard modern versions of the English Bible are actually faithful, diligent translations of the original Hebrew and Greek, and they are reliable. A good place in the Bible to start reading is the book of John. It's God's word, and He intended it to be read and understood by you! (If you don't have a Bible, please let us know, we can get you one. And in the meantime, you can also read the Bible online at www.biblegateway.com. They have all the standard translations, and many other languages, as well.) Take your time! Enjoy God's Word! It is God's letter to you! Ask Him to help you learn more about Him. If you come to Him confused about His identity because of false teachings about Him, He is willing and able to show what is true about Himself! Ask him to help you sort out the true from the false. Remember, he wants to be known by you! Be patient--it can take time, but He is right there with you through the whole process. Seek out other Christians to build relationships with--in fact, that's one of the key reasons to find a church to attend...to build relationships with other Christians that will help you grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ, and eventually to find practical ways that you, too, can serve Him. "That sounds a little scary...how do I know which church is 'right'?"
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