5 Things I Wish I’d Known When I First Started Following Jesus
When I reflect on my journey of following Jesus, I realize there are key lessons that would have helped me tremendously at the beginning. If you’re just starting or even if you’ve been walking this path for a while, these insights may encourage you.
1. The #1 Key to Everything: Abiding in Christ – The First Discipline of Jesus
Jesus said in John 15:5 (ESV), “I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” This verse highlights the first discipline of Jesus—staying connected to Him.
From God’s perspective, everything we do apart from abiding in Jesus is meaningless. However, when our actions flow from our relationship with Him, they become fruitful in His eyes.
How to Abide in Christ:
Trust in Your Union with Him – If you believe in Jesus, you are already in Christ, and He is in you.
Internalize Scripture for Following Jesus – Read, meditate, and study the Bible regularly. John 15:7 (ESV) says, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
Act on His Teachings – Obey what Jesus teaches. James 1:22 reminds us to be doers of the Word, not just hearers.
2. Stay Grounded in God’s Grace and Righteousness While Following Jesus
The gift of salvation comes through faith, not works. Ephesians 2:8–9 (ESV) states, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”
Many believers struggle with feelings of unworthiness. The enemy, known as the Accuser (Revelation 12:10), tries to make us feel condemned. But Romans 8:1 (ESV) declares, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
To grow in faith, remind yourself daily that you are made righteous through Jesus. This understanding will help you reign in life as God intended (Romans 5:17, ESV).
3. You Are Becoming Who God Says You Are – Jesus Said to Follow Me
Identity is a major struggle for many. Society asks, “Who am I?” but Jesus said to follow me and find our identity in Him. The Bible is filled with scriptures for following Jesus and discovering our true self in Him.
Psychologists say that we act according to how we see ourselves. If we see ourselves as failures, we’ll act like failures. If we embrace God’s truth about us, we’ll live as victorious children of God.
How to Align with God’s View of You:
Read and meditate on scriptures that declare your identity in Christ.
Reject lies that contradict God’s Word.
Continually renew your mind with biblical truth.
4. Stay Connected with Like-Minded Believers – Jesus and His Disciples Modeled Community
Even Jesus and His disciples operated within a community. Acts 2:46-47 (ESV) describes the early church meeting daily, sharing meals, and growing together in faith.
1 Corinthians 12 & 14 depict the church as the body of Christ. Each of us has a role, but our gifts function best in unity with others. Surrounding yourself with believers strengthens your walk and deepens your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.
5. The Principle of Receiving and Giving – A Key Scripture for Following Jesus
Luke 6:38 (ESV) states, “Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap.”
God’s design for life involves receiving from Him and then giving to others. As we abide in Christ and receive His love, we naturally overflow with generosity toward others. This principle applies not only to finances but also to encouragement, wisdom, and acts of kindness.
These are just a few lessons I wish I’d known when I first began following Jesus.
What about you?
What are the key truths that have shaped your walk with Christ? Let’s continue to encourage one another in our faith journey!
My goal is to help busy believers experience God more deeply, grow consistently—both spiritually and personally—and confidently live out their unique purpose.
