First, we all are sinners and stand under the judgment of God.
Second, God loves us, and Jesus came to make forgiveness and salvation possible. He died on the cross as the complete sacrifice for our sins. He took on Himself the judgment that we deserve.
Third, God, in His grace, offers us the gift of eternal life. But like any gift, it becomes ours ONLY when we respond to and receive it.
Fourth, salvation is intimately linked to Jesus and the cross. Jesus’ virgin birth, by the miraculous intervention of the Holy Spirit, meant that He did not inherit a sinful human nature like we did. As a result, Jesus did not commit any sin during His lifetime. Jesus became the only perfect Man, and as such, He was uniquely qualified to put God’s plan of salvation for mankind into action. On the cross, Jesus took the punishment of our sin. He was our Substitute. He suffered the judgment and condemnation of death that our sinful nature and deeds deserve.
Finally, faith is essential for salvation. But, there are various kinds of beliefs or faiths, and not all are linked to salvation. In the New Testament, faith means more than intellectual belief; it involves trust and commitment. For example, you may say that you believe a bridge will hold your weight, but you really believe it only when you commit yourself to it and walk across it. Salvation faith involves an act of commitment and trust, in which you commit your life to Jesus Christ and trust Him alone as your Savior and Lord.

SALVATION PRAYER

Committing your life to Jesus is a personal and individual decision. By praying a prayer like this, you are inviting Jesus into your life and releasing your cares and worries to Him.

“Jesus, right now, I ask You to become Lord of my life. You are my Savior and I thank You for the sacrifice You made on the cross. I receive Your grace and confidently believe that my life is forever changed.

Jesus, help me to live for You. My heart and my life are open to what You have for me. I want to know Your ways and love people as You love me. Everything within me is submitted to You. Thank You for Your mercy, hope, and unfailing love.

In Your name I pray, Amen.”

We’d love to celebrate with you! Let us know about your decision for Jesus by filling out this Connect Card. We want to help you with your next steps and getting you connected to the family of New Life Church.

Baptism

Water baptism is a step of obedience that symbolizes that we belong to Jesus and have committed our lives to Him. It is also a reminder of what Jesus did for us. When we go down into the water, we’re reminded of Jesus’ death on the cross and His payment for our sins. When we come out of the water, we’re reminded that three days later, Jesus rose from the dead! Though not essential for salvation, baptism is instructed by the Word of God so that you may go public with your faith.

Matthew 28:19

Acts 2:38

We believe that water baptism is an important step in your walk with Jesus. You can register for an upcoming baptism at your campus today!

Fasting

Everyone of importance in the Bible practiced fasting: Moses, David, Elijah, Esther, Daniel, Anna, Paul, Jesus, just to name a few. When Jesus taught on fasting, He would say “When you fast” not “If you fast”. He assumed that we would fast. We were created with fasting, think about it, if you sleep 8 hours a day, then you are sleeping 1/3 of your life. If you live, say, 75 years, that’s 25 years asleep, or 9,125 days. When you sleep, you are fasting, that’s why morning meal is called breakfast – it’s when you break your fast.

Fasting is abstaining from food for spiritual reasons.

BENEFITS OF FASTING:

Helps us overcome the calamities of life.
Fasting is the Biblical way to humble ourselves (Psalm 35:13; 69:10). Esther fasted when faced with danger (Esther 4:16). Ezra fasted for protection (Ezra 8:21-28). Jehoshaphat fasted in the time of the invasion of the confederate armies of Canaanites and Syrians (2 Chronicles 20:3).
Renews our connection with God.
Jesus said that His disciples will fast when He is gone (Mark 2:20). When we fast, we get our hunger back for the presence of God.
Empowers us to fulfill God’s calling in our life.
Most of the people in the OT fasted in a crisis; Jesus fasted for His calling. We should not fast only during problems, but also for our purpose. Anna was fasting for the coming of the redemption of Israel. (Luke 2:37).
Defeats the devil.
Once, the disciples of Jesus could not cast out a demon. Jesus said, This kind does not leave, but by prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21). Fasting helps to break the bonds of wickedness, undo heavy burdens, and empower us to break every yoke (Isaiah 58:6).

We should not fast only during problems, but also for our purpose.

HOW TO BEGIN:

Start With a Clear Goal.
Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of your marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
Preparing Spiritually.
Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended. Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2).
Deciding What to Fast.
The type of fasting you choose is up to you. You could go on a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.
Deciding How Long.
You may fast as long as you like. Most can easily fast from one to three days, but you may feel the grace to go longer, even as much as 21 to 40 days. Use wisdom and pray for guidance. Beginners are advised to start slow.
What to Expect.
When you fast, your body detoxifies and eliminates toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.
How to End.
Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.

Source: Vlad Savchuk https://www.hungrygen.com/fasting