Jump in and do everything you can to help them grow, and you’ll be excited to see a person who’s not only come to Christ but is now a growing believer. After all, that’s why God has us on earth – to impact people for Himself.
There's a first time for everything, they say. For Emily's best friend, Katie, there was a big first recently. Katie's sweet Camden turned one and Momma thought it was time for a haircut. Thanks to modern technology, Nana and Auntie K were able to watch the excitement even though they were in Indiana and the haircut took place in North Carolina. 
Just as Nana cheered during her grandson's first hair cut, we should be cheering on the new babies in God's family.
1. Be Gentle
Paul told the new Christians in Thessalonica, "We cared for you the way a mother cares for her children. We loved you dearly"(Thessalonians 2:7). I've seen new Christians become discouraged when personal convictions and spiritual meat was offered. Like our babies, they need to begin with milk.
2. Be a Friend
Many times new Christians flounder because their old friends are a negative influence. Offer hospitality by inviting them to share a meal with your family or join you for a game night and popcorn. Connect with them during the week by phone or social medias. Send an encouraging card or note. Buy a good devotional or a CD of praise music.
3. Offer Community
It's important for a new Christian to connect with a church family. Community is a way for a Christian to grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Encourage them to join a Bible Study with other Christians who can help them in their faith journey.
4. Point them to the Word
Instead of simply answering the questions of a new believer, point them to answers in the Word of God. If you don't know the book or verse, tell them you will look it up and let them know. They need to know what God says more than what you say. Remember, God's Word never returns empty (Isaiah 55:11). It accomplishes what our words cannot.5. Pray
It's important to pray for the new believer, but equally important to pray with them. They need to see God is available continually. He is not tied to a specific time, place or posture. A new Christian needs to hear prayers of thanksgiving as well as supplication. As you model prayer, they see God desires to hear from them with "Help me" to "Thank you" prayers.
I'm praying that every day in 2014 the Lord will add those who are being saved to the group of believers. (Acts 2:27). And when He does, I want to be faithful to cheer them on in embracing their God, their new faith and in finding their place in the community of God's family.
Will you pray with me?
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11 comments:
Praying with you!
Camden is adorable!
I pray this way, too, Pamela!
What a great tie-in & such a sweet-looking child :)
Great application! One I can relate to well--and pray over!
Awww, what a cutie. And what a great analogy for an important lesson. Thanks for a lovely visit via Charlotte's Spiritual Sunday :)
Yes, I will join you.
Fondly,
Glenda
Too sweet! Haircut pictures...how fun!
And thanks for that encouragement to notice spiritual firsts. Praying!
Nice post.
Excellent illustration for that Scripture Study!!! That baby sat there so still for the haircut!
Yes, Pamela, praying...
I'm always praying, hoping for the eyes of the blind to be opened to the amazing grace and unending love that our Savior brought to this world.
And oh, Camden is adorable!!
GOD BLESS!
Such wisdom here. Thank you, Pamela.
HI Pam! What a cute photo of your grandchild! And isn't technology amazing? You can be there for all the fun things, or just to chat a while.
I love the point you made about being gentle. I know that sometimes I come on like a freight train, and who likes that? Gentleness and pointing to The Lord is really the way to go. Such helpful hints.
Happy Valentines Day! So good to see you again,
Ceil
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