From Mary Fairchild,
Your Guide to Christianity.
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Are you a brand new follower of Christ, wondering where to get started on your journey? Here are 4 essential steps to move you forward toward spiritual growth. Though simple, they are vital to building your relationship with the Lord.

Step 1 – Read your Bible daily. Find a Bible reading plan that’s right for you. A plan will keep you from missing anything God has written in His Word. Also, if you follow the plan, you’ll be on your way to reading through the Bible once every year! The easiest way to truly “grow up” in the faith is to make Bible reading a priority.

• Find a Bible Reading Plan
• How to Study the Bible
• Top 10 Bibles

Step 2 – Attend church services regularly. The Bible encourages us to meet together regularly with other believers (Hebrews 10:25). This is also fundamental to spiritual growth. If you’re having trouble finding a church, check out these resources on how to find a church that’s right for you.

• Find a Church
• Typical Church Service (Walk Through)
• What Does the Bible Say About Church Attendance?
• Attributes of a Good Church

Step 3 – Get involved in a ministry group. Most churches offer small groups and many ministry opportunities. Pray and ask God where you should “plug in.” It’s the people who really “get plugged in” that find their purpose and soar in their walk with Christ. Sometimes this takes a little time, but most churches offer classes or counseling to help you find the place that’s right for you. Don’t get discouraged if the first thing you try doesn’t seem to fit.

• Christian Faith in Action

Step 4 – Pray daily. Prayer is simply talking to God. You don’t have to use big fancy words. There are no right and wrong words. Just be yourself. Give thanks to the Lord daily for your salvation. Pray for others in need. Pray for direction. Pray for the Lord to fill you daily with His Holy Spirit. There is no limit to prayer. You can pray with your eyes closed or open, while sitting or standing, kneeling or lying on your bed, anywhere, anytime. So begin to make prayer a part of your daily routine.

• Basics to Prayer
• Prayers for Specific Needs
• Prayers and Verses

Additional Spiritual Growth Tips:

• Follow the Lord in Believer's Baptism
• Avoid Backsliding
• Create a Devotional Plan
• Spend Time With God