writing your story.

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God loves you and wants you to experience the peace and life He offers. The Bible says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). He has a plan for you.

Being at peace with God is not automatic. By nature, we are all separated from Him. The Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). God is holy, but we are human and don’t measure up to His perfect standard. We are sinful, and “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).

God’s love bridges the gap of separation between you and Him. When Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose from the grave, He paid the penalty for your sins. The Bible says, “‘He Himself bore our sins’ in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by His wounds you have been healed’” (1 Peter 2:24).

You cross the bridge into God’s family when you accept Christ’s free gift of salvation. The Bible says, “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).  Here’s a prayer you can pray to receive Christ:“Dear Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe you died for my sins and rose from the dead. I trust and follow you as my Lord and Savior. Guide my life and help me to do your will. In your name, amen.”

Romans 10:13 says, “Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Start small.

Our relationship with God will last and grow through a lifetime—and then some. It’s a journey. You’re not expected to arrive today. So, put aside any worry or guilt that might be holding you back, and commit to taking small steps each day, week and month.  Every week includes 168 hours.  You only need a few of them to get started.

Do not conform: Remove

Try to eliminate as many distractions that you can and find 1/2 hour each day to pray and read. Which things are taking up the most time in your life? TV, social media, news? Even good things like volunteering, working out, social outings, etc. can prevent you from a deep relationship with God. 

Be transformed: Pray

Grab a journal, a pen and some time to think. Consider the things you’d love to see happen in your life that seem impossible.  What can only God do?  Write them out in daily prayers to God.

Renew your mind: Read

Every month select a Bible verse to memorize and pray over.  Write it down in your journal.  Maybe start with Romans 12:2.

Then you will know: Discern

Taking these small steps with an open heart each day will strengthen your relationship with God.  As you grow, He will teach you to discern His plan for your life.