What is the best foundation for my spiritual growth? “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly”

Colossians 3:16

I didn’t always view the Bible as the kind of friend it has now become. Before I committed my life to Jesus I found it confusing, even mysterious, partly because I tried to read it from page 1, like any other book. Soon I got bogged down and put it aside. After I became a believer, the Bible began to come alive. My entry point was reading about Jesus in the New Testament. Often, to my amazement, what I read in the morning would apply directly to events happening that very day. Learning from the Bible is the best way to build a “rock-solid” spiritual foundation. From the Bible’s inspired pages you will learn who God is, how He wants you to live and how He will guide you. Think of spending time with God’s Word as laying the foundation of a building. Though hidden from view, it is indispensable and no place to cut corners. The soundness and stability of the entire structure depends on a solid foundation. Make the Bible the basis of your spiritual life. If you don’t have a Bible, you can easily access one at Here, where hundreds of language versions are available. Start with Luke’s gospel. Read a little each day. Let the words speak to you, bringing some fresh insight, some new truth

What did you read in the Bible today that seemed like God was talking directly to you? Did you have questions about it? 

Beckett.J

Next Steps: God is Love

What should I do first?

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”

Matthew 11:28

Early in our journey, we need to understand the difference between religion and relationship. Perhaps you have seen the ways religion can be rules-based, harsh and stifling. In contrast, our relationship with Jesus should be much different: personal, open, warm and liberating.

Jesus wants us to come to Him the way a little child comes to a loving parent. For example, my wife, Wendy, and I were always delighted when one of our six youngsters would run up to us, arms outstretched for a hug, and then nestle in, completely at rest and filled with trust.

May I ask you to do something out the ordinary? Regardless of your age, become a “little child” for a minute. Come to Jesus as one would to a loving parent. No requests. No expectations. You don’t have to brush your teeth or comb your hair. Simply come and linger in His presence, experiencing His love for you. Why not take a moment to do this right now?

Let this childlike action become a lifelong habit. From this place of trust you will experience the transforming power of the new life. Don’t fall into the busyness trap of “doing things for God.” More than our help, He wants us to confidently rest in His care. This enables Him to work through us. His work is inside out, not outside in.

What do you think the difference is between religion and relationship? Do you need help understanding?

Written by J. Beckett

Next Step:The Bible: A Word for all Ages

What can I expect on my journey?

“He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6) “Daddy, are we there yet?” That’s the question our children would ask when they were small, just as we set out on a long car ride. I had to remind them of the many hours ahead but also to be patient and enjoy the trip. Your journey of faith is more than a car ride. It’s a lifelong adventure. To help you along the way: Be confident that, whatever you encounter, Christ is with you. He promised: “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Look for small changes, not instant results. Some examples: meeting a new Christian friend; making progress toward overcoming an annoying habit; discovering a verse of scripture that “comes alive” for you. Embrace each moment, trusting God for the future. Change is not easy. We need to be a little tough on ourselves, especially when we’re tempted to give up. But with each victory, even small ones, we are better able to meet the next challenge. Many times I thought the Christian life was too difficult. Old habits and friends who were a poor influence would draw me like metal to a magnet. Sometimes I gave in. You will have these moments. But thank God we are not on our own. We can trust the Lord Jesus, the One who lives in us and is totally committed to seeing us through to the end of life’s journey.

Next Step:God Works inside out

Written by John Beckett