8 things I’ve learned since becoming a Christian

I love being a believer. My life is fuller, brighter and full of hope. I think it is such a shame that there is a stigma that comes with being a Christian, but after reading the New Testament one quickly learns that is the way it must be. Christians have been and will continue to be persecuted.

I grew up in a Christian household only to deny my faith in my early 20’s. I spent my entire 20’s chasing my own selfishness. Finding pleasure in the world. But I have never been happier since becoming a Christian.

I chose Jesus in 2014. Mi Amor and I have become steadfast in our faith and are proud to be Christians. But it didn’t come without plenty of bumps along the way, so I know I have some interesting insights on what it means to me to be a Christian.

 Here’s what I’ve learned since becoming a Christian:

I am not saved by my works alone. I am saved because Jesus died on the cross and took on my sin. Grace is a beautiful gift from God.

Speaking of Grace – I am human, which makes me a sinner. I will sin, but confessing it and accepting Jesus as my Savior is what will continue to save me.

I agree with this saying wholeheartedly: hate the sin, not the sinner. We must love everyone. In fact, when Mi Amor gets under my skin I have to remind myself he is God’s son, too! I do believe if we loved no matter what, that in and of itself is a huge ministry. Jesus did just that – he hung out with the sinners. He didn’t conform to their ways, but He loved them with everything. I want to be just like Him in that regard.

A relationship with God isn’t just about praying. I need to spend time with Him daily. I’m a better wife and mother when I start my day with Him, and everyone around me can feel it too. I’ve learned so much about being in relationship with Him in 2017 and it has changed everything. I’m a quick-prayer kind of gal, but spending time with Him and in His Word is where I find refuge, am refueled and find peace. Best way to spend my time!

There is a church for everyone. There are so many church options out there. If you are not a Christian but intrigued, I encourage you to visit a few. Church hop, if you will. Churches cater to different wants and needs. Worship is important to us so we will always attend a church with a lively band. We started at a mega church, which I lovingly call our “starter church.” It was just what we needed at the time, and now we attend a smaller church with big church amenities. Women and men’s ministries are important to us, as is the children’s ministry. But above all else, our pastor is a bible teaching pastor. He teaches strait outta His Word, and this is so valuable to us.

Related: How to find a new church after a move

There can be amazing community within the church. Since joining the women’s group and a life group, I have made real, lifelong friends. People with similar values, moms in the same seasons, wives that are happy to give away their valuable knowledge. I’ve never grown more as a person.

I am enough. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. God loves me. I am worthy. The list goes on – I’ve never felt more joy than when I accepted God back into my life. My life has purpose, and it’s greater than I could ever know.

I am less judgmental. I have learned that being judgmental and a hypocrite is simply human, yet Christians get this stigma a lot. In every case, there are stereotypes and the bad seeds that give everyone a “bad rap.” I judged Christians before, along with a lot of people for no good reason. Now that I am a Christian, I have much more compassion towards other. I am learning to love others no matter what.

I believe in prayer. Our faithfulness knows no bounds. It is because of my parent’s fervent prayers that I am a Christian. They knew, despite my outrageous behavior, lack of respect and disinterest in their faith, God would overcome. And He sure did….because they prayed without ceasing. It is this very fact that I have prayed for BabyCoolJ since pregnancy. (and his future wife…that she’s not only a wonderful person and believer, but that I like her and we get along great!!)

Related: How to start a prayer journal + free printables

I am free. Our pastor once shared the story of Texan slaves and its relation to Christianity. Even though President Lincoln had announced the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, the news didn’t reach the salves of Galveston until 1865. Two and a half years later!! These slaves had been set free, but didn’t know it. YOU are free from the world’s bonds and being a slave to yourself, even if you don’t know it yet. In relation to being a believer, I know the direct effects of being a slave to my own desires and changing to freedom through Christ. There is no better feeling in this world.

Y’all, it is good to be a Christian!! What about you…anything that stands out in your faith? Something exciting you know now you didn’t before God? I’d love to hear about it!

 

 

 

All scripture graphics are from the Christian Standard Bible translation. You may share these graphics, but please do not alter or attempt to sell them. Always feel free to tag @amerytina. Thank you!