so now what?

If you are serious about turning to God and living his way you have to take some big steps. 1 Admit to God that you've blown it and need forgiveness, regardless of how "good" you think you've been compared to others. 2 Trust. Believe that Jesus died so that you could live. He came back to life to prove it! Ask for his forgiveness.

3 Change. It is a big surrender to let God be GOD of your life. Stop doing things he doesn't want, and start doing things he does want. It's a change of heart...this is true repentance.

4 Follow Jesus. This involves all aspects of life for the rest of your life. It is a lifelong adventure, with God shaping you his way.

You can start by talking to God about all this. Maybe a prayer like this expresses the way you feel:

"... Jesus, I'm sorry tor running my own life and rebelling against you. I'm sorry for the hurt I've brought to myself, others and you. I need the forgiveness that you paid for on the cross. Jesus, save me. I give you my life, messed up as it is. I commit myself to follow you. But I can't go it alone. Come into my life and help me to become the person you want me to be. Thank you for your promise to hear all who call on you."

Becoming a Christian is just the Start. Now comes a lifetime of growth

Surfers all know that it takes daily discipline and commitment to gain the full benefits of being a "waterman" or "waterwoman". Here are some basic things to take on board if you want to grow into a genuine Christian.

Read Your Bible Daily. It's the "Manufacturer's Handbook". God will give you understanding about this new life you've started. God's word was written to change your life, not just increase your knowledge, so come ready to obey.

Talk To God. We call it praying. It's about keeping in contact for all things-God is with you everywhere. Sometimes you may need to confess some wrong you have done, other times there are needs you have, sometimes you are thankful, then there are the needs of others. God's got it all in hand and is online 24/7.
 
Go Along To Church. The church is not a building, a ceremony or a fashion. It is God's family gathered together. Christianity is a team sport; in fact, the church is your new extended family. We need each other to be encouraged, to learn, to receive advice. You need to join in with other Christians, even when they don't surf. Remember, they have to learn to put up with you just as much as you have to put up with them!

Do Something for God. You have something to offer the "team" as well. It's good to tell others about Jesus and your experience of him. There's a whole world of needs that God wants to meet and he uses people who will let him reach out through them.

Is There Anyone Out There? You can talk a Christian you know or to "Christian Surfers" via our website and links. You never need to feel alone-God has a big family out there.

Got A Bible? If you've just read through this and haven't got a bible and want a New Testament, Surfers Bible then Email your Name and Postal Address with your request for a Surfers Bible to us at info@christiansurfers.org.nz

Normally worth $10, this bible is yours free compliments of Christian Surfers NZ.