I just became a Christian — what should I do next?

Trusting Jesus is the beginning of a relationship, not the end of a checklist. Here are five simple steps to help you grow.

1. Tell someone

Share your decision with a Christian you trust. Saying it out loud helps it take root, and gives someone the chance to encourage you and walk with you.

2. Talk to God daily

Prayer is simply talking with your Father — honestly, in your own words. There's no formula; just be real with Him a little each day.

3. Read the Bible

God speaks to us through His Word. Start with the Gospel of John to get to know Jesus, then keep reading a little each day.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

— 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)

4. Find a church

Find a Bible-believing, Bible-preaching church where you can worship, learn, and grow alongside other believers. See Hebrews 10:25 below!

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

— Hebrews 10:25 (KJV)

5. Follow Jesus in baptism

Baptism doesn't save you — you're saved by grace through faith in Jesus. But it's a good and joyful step of obedience once you believe. Going under the water and rising up again is a public picture of what has already happened in your heart: your old life is buried with Christ, and you rise to walk in new life with Him!

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

— Romans 6:4 (KJV)

You are a new creation

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

— 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)

You don't have to feel different to be saved. Your assurance rests on God's promises, not your feelings — and He always keeps His word.