Living the Christian Life the Same Way You Started—By Trusting Jesus
Have you ever wondered how to keep your connection with Jesus strong? Here’s something important. The way you start is also the way you continue. When you first became a Christian, you probably realized you couldn’t save yourself. You needed Jesus, so you trusted Him—this is what the Bible calls faith.
Now, here’s a simple truth that many people miss. It’s not only by faith that you start your relationship with Jesus. It’s also a journey of continuous growth. It’s by faith that you keep going. This faith helps you grow stronger in that relationship. Imagine plugging your phone into a charger. You don’t just plug it in for a second. Don’t expect it to stay charged forever. You need to stay connected to the source of power. In the same way, the Christian life isn’t just about that first moment of faith. It’s also about staying connected to Jesus every day. You do this by trusting Him.
What Does “Walk in Him by Faith” Mean?
The Bible says, “As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” This means keep living your life the same way you started—with trust. You didn’t earn your way in, and you don’t earn your way ahead. You simply keep relying on Him.
Common Misunderstanding
A lot of Christians are excited to talk about how we are first saved—by faith, not by being good enough. But after a while, some start to believe that once they’re in, they must work hard. They think they have to stay in God’s good books. They think, “Now it’s up to me to keep this going—by praying enough, being good enough, and trying really hard.” But that’s not what the Bible teaches. It’s still all about faith—trusting Jesus to help you and change you, just like at the beginning.
Why Do We Struggle With This?
Jesus still loves us. He still forgives us and wants to help us—especially when we mess up. We remember our mistakes and feel weak. We think, “How God still want me close?” Or maybe we worry about the future and wonder, “Will I ever really change? Can I stay faithful?” These kinds of doubts can make faith feel hard.
But think back: when you first believed in Jesus, you probably felt unworthy, too. Maybe you wondered how He could forgive you. But you dared to trust Him anyway—not because you were amazing, but because He promised. And He kept that promise.
How Do We Keep Abiding in Jesus?
It’s the same today. Every morning, every moment, keep coming to Jesus by trusting Him. Remember, just like a branch can only live and bear fruit if it stays connected to the vine. We can only live and grow as Christians if we stay connected to Jesus. We must trust Him for everything.
· When you feel weak or guilty, turn to Jesus, not away from Him. Trust that He still loves and forgives you.
· When you wonder if you can keep going, remember: it’s Jesus who gives you strength, not your own power.
· When you think you never change, trust that He’s working in you, just like He promised.
What Does Faith Look Like in Daily Life?
Faith isn’t just a one-time thing; it’s a way of life. It means looking to Jesus when you need help. It means believing He’s enough for you—enough to forgive, enough to help you grow, enough to give your life meaning. When you wake up, say, “Jesus, I trust You today. I can’t do this on my own. Please help me.”
Faith is also believing what Jesus says about Himself: He is the Vine, and you are a branch. The branch doesn’t have to struggle to stay attached. It only needs to stay on the vine to let the sap flow. In the same way, as long as we’re connected to Jesus by faith, He gives us what we need. This includes love, joy, strength, and the ability to do what’s right.
Practical Steps
· Start each day with a simple prayer: “Jesus, I’m Yours. I trust You to help me today.”
· When you mess up, don’t hide from God. Come honestly to Him, trusting that He still welcomes you.
· Read the Bible to remind yourself of what’s true about Jesus and about you.
· Thank Him often for keeping His promises, especially when you feel weak or discouraged.
Conclusion: Stay Plugged In
The heart of the Christian life isn’t about trying harder in your own strength. It’s about staying plugged in to Jesus by faith. The same trust that connected you to Him in the beginning will help you grow now. It will allow you to live for Him continually. As you came to Him, keep walking in Him—by faith, every day, in every situation.
If you remember nothing else, remember this: Jesus is faithful. He is the Vine, you are the branch. Trust Him to do in you and through you everything He has promised. That’s the simple, powerful secret of being a Christian.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 