Here are some steps to consider as you rededicate your life to the Lord by renewing your relationship with God and Christ.
Remember that growth is a process.
Ephesians 4:15: “But we shall lovingly hold to the truth and shall in all respects GROW UP into union with him who is our head, even Christ.”
An important first step in going forward is to confess our sins and be willing to surrender to the process of cleansing. 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Developing an attitude of prayer, and making time for prayer is important
1 Thessalonians 5:16: “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
The role of seeking godly counsel and fellowship
Having fellowship with those strong in faith can result in godly guidance in the challenges faced in everyday life. The process of true repentance and change in the process of spiritual healing of our sinful tendencies can be greatly helped by the prayers of other Christians. James 5:16: “Therefore make it your habit to confess your sins to one another and to pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
“Where no wise guidance is, the people falleth; but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” This principle in Proverbs 11:14 suggests we should search for good advice from people who can give wise guidance and contribute to our spiritual well-being.
Hebrews 10:24-25: “…let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near.”
It is important to avoid the company and influence of those who would not support righteous standards in how they talk and in what they do. Proverbs 4:14-15: “Don’t take the path of the wicked; don’t follow those who do evil. Stay away from that path; don’t even go near it. Turn around and go another way.”
Consistent study of the word of God is important and is a vital source of the wise guidance and counsel. We are sanctified or made holy through the word of truth. John 17:17: “Sanctify them by the truth. Your word is truth.” It is the main source to help us to understand the character of God and Christ and to understand and to live their standards.
The word of God can guide our thinking and our actions. Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword…as it judges (and helps us discern and perceive) the desires and thoughts of the heart.”
2 Timothy 2:15: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth.”
We need to guard against discouragement in this process of growth.
It is important to continue going forward, learning from the mistakes of the past, never giving up. Proverbs 24:16: “A just man falls seven times, but rises up again…”
2 Corinthians 7:10: “For godly sorrow produces a repentance not to be regretted…” This verse helps us be aware that GODLY SORROW leads to change. ‘Beating ourselves up’ about past or present mistakes is not godly sorrow. It does not lead to sincere change; it leads to discouragement and getting stuck in discouragement. So, our goal needs to be to be more careful to not exaggerate our sins and mistakes, and yet to take the sins and mistakes seriously, and really open our heart to the lesson and progress the Lord has for us.
Rededication of spiritual commitment could lead to symbolizing this commitment again through baptism.
Being a faithful Christian requires acceptance of Christ and living a life of full commitment and devotion to the will of God. This commitment includes the confession “I am a sinner,” the recognition and acceptance that “Jesus is my personal Savior” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15) and the complete dedication of our lives to God and Christ ‘I present my body—all of my life and all that I am, as a living sacrifice.’ (based on making Romans 12:1 a personal statement.)