The book of John says that one of Jesus’ own followers, a man named Thomas, had trouble believing that he was really seeing Jesus when the two met after Jesus was raised from the dead. If someone who met Jesus face-to-face had trouble with faith, it’s only natural that people today would struggle with it too. Ephesians 2:8-9 says: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not of ourselves, it is the gift of God. ” This means that faith isn’t something you have to do or have on your own, but a gift that God gives you to help you believe. [3] X Research source
If you really want to dig deep into the historical context around Jesus’ life, try reading books like Journal for the Study of Historical Jesus and Studying the Historical Jesus: A Guide to Sources and Methods.
In order to understand how Jesus’ death was payment for our sins, it helps to know that in the Old Testament, people were commanded by God to make sacrifices of their animals and crops in order to attain God’s forgiveness. God sent His son Jesus to Earth to take the place of those sacrificial ceremonies, earning forgiveness for all people. John 3:16, one of the most well-known scriptures in the Bible, describes Jesus’ role in our forgiveness: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life. " John 14:6 reiterates this message: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. "
Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. ” Being a sinner doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re a bad person; it just means that no one is capable of being perfect. In fact, the Bible says that Jesus was the only person to ever live who never committed a single sin. Because of sin, no one is worthy of an eternal heaven with God. However, He is loving and kind, so He has made it possible to attain that anyway. Romans 6:23 explains, “The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ” (Many Biblical scholars believe that in this scripture, “death” means being separated from God in the afterlife. )
Hebrews 11:3 explains that although we can not see God, He is the One responsible for creating the world: “By faith, we understand that the worlds were formed by the word of God, so that the things that are seen were not made of things that are visible. "
Try saying something like this: “Dear Lord, I know that I have made mistakes, and I will never be perfect. I want to turn away from sin and follow the teachings of Jesus. Please forgive me for everything I’ve done wrong, and help me to be a better person and grow every day. ” However, you can say whatever you want in your prayer, as long as it truly comes from your heart. 1 John 1:9 says: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. "
Don’t worry if you don’t get it right all at once. Becoming more like Christ is a lifelong process, so just allow God to lead you as you continue to improve.
In Acts 2:38, Peter says: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. " The Holy Ghost is the spirit of God who inhabits His believers and helps to guide them in the ways of right and wrong. In some denominations, you’ll be sprinkled with water in a symbolic baptism, rather than submerged under water.
During your quiet time, you can read devotionals, study your Bible, pray, write in a journal, or whatever else makes you feel close to Jesus. Some people worship while they’re gardening, driving, cooking, or singing, so find what feels most natural and authentic to you. When you’re praying, praise Jesus for his goodness, and ask him to strengthen your faith. Then, pay attention to how he reveals himself to you in your daily life. [15] X Research source
Early Christians were often arrested and even killed after Jesus’ death. Some of the books of the New Testament, like Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, and Hebrews, are letters written during that time. They show that these believers were afraid, yet still gathered together to share and grow their faith. [17] X Research source The apostle Paul was tormented by an unknown affliction, as described in 2 Corinthians. While his specific struggle is never named, he refers to it as a “thorn in his flesh,” and his humility and faith are examples of strength that still resonate today. Jesus himself was betrayed by one of his closest friends, and the night before he was killed, he stayed up all night praying. His steadfast faith and determination to fulfill his destiny, described in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, can be a powerful inspiration if you’re facing a difficult task.
This doesn’t mean that Jesus will suddenly solve all your problems, or that you’ll never worry about anything again. However, his strength can help make it easier to cope with your troubles. 1 Peter 5:7 says: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. ”
For example, if you’re struggling with grief over the loss of a loved one, you might realize how important it is to spend time with the people who matter the most to you while you still have them. This isn’t going to take away your pain, but it can help you become closer to the people in your life. Proverbs 3:5-6 says: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. "
