Steps to Christ

As we journey through life, it's easy to get lost in the complexities of our daily struggles and worries. But amidst the chaos, there's a simple yet profound truth that can bring us peace and purpose: we can take steps to draw closer to Christ.

The first step to Christ is to acknowledge our need for Him. We must recognize that we're sinners in need of a Savior. In Romans 3:23, we're told that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This realization is the starting point for our journey to Christ.

The next step is to understand the nature of God's love. In John 3:16, we're told that "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse shows us the depth of God's love for us.

As we take steps to Christ, we must also understand the role of faith. In Hebrews 11:1, we're told that "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Faith is the foundation of our relationship with Christ.

The fourth step to Christ is to repent of our sins. In 1 John 1:9, we're told that "if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." [We must confess our sins to God see Psalms 32:5] Repentance is a crucial step in our journey to Christ.

The fifth step is to accept Christ as our Lord and Savior. In Romans 10:9, we're told that "if you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." [See also Acts 2:21, 4:14, 16:30-31, Romans 10:13] These verses shows us the importance of accepting Christ as our Lord and Savior.

As we take steps to Christ, we must also understand the importance of prayer. In Philippians 4:6, we're told to "not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Prayer is a vital part of our relationship with Christ.

The seventh step to Christ is to study the Bible. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, we're told that "all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." The Bible is our guidebook for life. 

 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. [John 5:39 KJV]

The eighth step is to join a community of believers. In Hebrews 10:24-25, we're told to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Community is essential for our spiritual growth.

The ninth step to Christ is to share our faith with others. In Matthew 28:19-20, we're told to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Sharing our faith is a crucial part of our journey to Christ.

The tenth step is to trust in God's sovereignty. In Isaiah 46:10, we're told that "my counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure." Trusting in God's sovereignty gives us peace and confidence in our journey to Christ.

As we take steps to Christ, we must also understand the importance of obedience. In John 14:15, we're told that "if you love me, keep my commands." Obedience is a key part of our relationship with Christ.

The twelfth step to Christ is to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we're told to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." Gratitude is an essential part of our spiritual growth.

The thirteenth step is to develop a spirit of humility. In James 4:10, we're told to "humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." Humility is a crucial part of our journey to Christ.

The fourteenth step to Christ is to persevere in our faith. In Hebrews 12:1-2, we're told to "run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." Perseverance is essential for our spiritual growth.

The fifteenth step is to trust in God's goodness. In Psalm 23:4, we're told that "even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me." Trusting in God's goodness gives us peace and confidence in our journey to Christ.

As we take steps to Christ, we must also understand the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Amen.

Note: The "Steps to Christ" outlined above are a devotional guide and based on Scriptures, the steps numbering are not based on any specific biblical scholar or theological framework. The numbering and organization of the steps are intended for simplicity and clarity, rather than representing a universally accepted or academically rigorous approach to understanding the Christian faith. Readers are encouraged to consult multiple sources and engage in ongoing study and reflection to deepen their understanding of the Bible and its teachings. Read the book below.

Recommended book: Steps to Christ By EGW - Book