Whaling, Planking, and other popular fads.

In today's world we have access to all sorts of information via online search engines. Whether you have a computer, a laptop, a tablet, a smart phone, or all of the devices listed you only have to type a word in, and a barrage of data; useless or beneficial is coming your way. For instance, type the word #whaling and one of many results you will find is a video showing a new fad that is taking the online culture by storm. The same goes for #planking, another popular craze that took valuable hours from the lives of many in an attempt to be a part of the in-crowd. We are always striving to obtain self-satisfaction by mimicking things such as these in order to fill the holes in our lives. We want acceptance, approval from our peers, so we waste valuable time in an attempt to fill the void temporarily with things that will certainly not help us attain eternal life with our Father. Here's one for us to try; #follow Jesus.

By doing this I cannot tell you that you will be a part of the "in crowd", as a matter of fact you will probably lose friendships and make enemies as a result of your choice. Choosing to follow our Heavenly Father will likely not garner many likes, follows, or re-tweets in the Social Media world either. One thing I do know for sure is that we can attain Eternal Salvation (John 6:47  Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life), Peace  (Phillipians 4:9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in Me-practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you), and Hope (Lamentations 3:24 "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in Him.")

Some information obtained by looking online occasionally will pop up sights that give "how to" directions in regards to the data that was input. I will attempt to set forth steps of my own in regards to following Jesus, just to establish a plan of action both for myself and those in the audience that have found interest in this article.

1. Believe and Accept

Believe that Jesus Christ is our Risen Savior, and that God sent Him to die on the cross for the remission of our sins. Believe that He is the Alpha, the Omega, beginning and the end. Accept this and begin your journey.

     2.  Repent
 

Repent of your sins. Ask God for forgiveness and it will be given. Repentance is change of direction in thought and behavior. Turn away from your old ways, and begin your walk in God's ways.

     3.  Confess

Declare your faith! State that Jesus forgave you of your transgressions, and you were made a new creature in Christ.

     4.  Be Baptized

 

Show your commitment as a disciple of Jesus. Wash off the old self, and come out of the water cleansed and refreshed as a Child of the King.

     5.  Receive the Holy Spirit

 

When you allow Jesus to become the Lord of your life and God's Presence is poured into you the Holy Spirit comes alive in you.

     6.  Walk as a Disciple

Even though this is the last step it can be the hardest step, because a believer changes their mind but a disciple changes their life. This is where we live the life of the called. Jesus told the disciples in Matthew 16:24 that "Whoever wants to be my Disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me."  Challenges will come in many forms. We will experience trials and tribulations while walking as a Disciple in this world, but we need to remain steadfast and faithful in order to gain our rewards of an eternity with Our Maker.

Well, there you have it folks. Straight from the archives of WIKI-ROBERT. On a serious note, I am believing for a change in the hearts of people whether it be through this blog post or some other form of spreading the Gospel. God is longing for His children to come home. He is pleased when we answer the call that has been placed in every one of our hearts. #Following Jesus is not a passing fad, it may not be the latest craze, but I want to spread my wings in Heaven; I hope you'll join me.     Be Blessed.