A New Christian’s Guide: 40 Days to Strengthen Your Faith and Build a Relationship with Jesus

When I first accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior, I was filled with a mix of hope and confusion. I had just encountered the life-changing message of the gospel—the truth that Jesus Christ took my sins upon Himself on the cross, died for them, and rose again from the dead. I had learned the essence of the Romans Road to Salvation: "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9). But even though I believed this truth, I was lost in what it actually meant to follow Jesus day by day.

Coming from a Hindu background, I was also hiding my faith from my family. I feared their reaction and what it would mean for my relationships with them. Living with this secrecy and uncertainty made the journey even more challenging. I didn’t have anyone to guide me or help me navigate what it meant to be a follower of Jesus, especially within a family that didn’t share my newfound faith.

As I struggled with my new identity in Christ, I fell into temptations, particularly with pornography, and I battled deeply with shame and confusion. Without guidance, I felt like I was drowning in a sea of uncertainty. I knew I wanted to follow Jesus, but I didn’t know how.

It wasn’t until 2020 that I finally accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. For years, I had been lost and confused, but in 2020, I decided to ask God to teach me what it truly meant to love Him and follow Him. That’s when God began to walk me through a 40-day journey that changed my life. During those 40 days, God helped me overcome my porn addiction and taught me what it meant to live for Him. I experienced His love, grace, and power in a way I never had before. You might be also in the same situation as I am a Christian coming from a Hindu background or you may be from a Muslim background, and you are a new believer.

Below are the steps you need to take to have a relationship with Jesus as a new Christian. These are hard lessons I learned from disobeying God and prioritizing what my Hindu parents wanted me to do instead of following Jesus.

Accepting Christ is just the beginning. Following Him is a journey—one that will challenge you but also bring you unimaginable peace, love, and purpose. Over the next 40 days, we invite you to pursue Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that this period will be a spiritual battlefield, much like a video game where the closer you get to the reward, the more enemies you face. But don’t worry—you’re not alone. Jesus is with you every step of the way.

Step 1: Seek Jesus Through Bible Reading

Getting Started with the Bible: A Guide for New Christians

The Bible is God’s Word, and reading it is one of the most important ways to understand His promises, His love, and His plan for your life. As a new Christian, committing to reading the Bible daily will not only strengthen your faith but also equip you with the spiritual armor you need to face the challenges ahead.

The Bible is divided into two main sections: the **Old Testament** (the first 39 books) and the **New Testament** (which starts with the stories of Jesus, beginning in the Book of Matthew). The Bible might look like it's organized into chapters, but each section is actually called a "book" because these were once separate writings that have been compiled together. I’ll explain more about that in a different post.

To get started, pick a time each day to read your Bible. Begin by reading 1-3 chapters a day. Consistency is key—make it a daily habit to connect with God through His Word.

A Simple Prayer to Begin Your Bible Reading:

“God, I want to know You more. Please open my heart and mind as I read Your Word. Teach me how to have a relationship with You.”

Best Books of the Bible for New Christians to Start With:

1. The Book of John

Why: This book gives a powerful introduction to who Jesus is. It focuses on His love, His miracles, and His teachings, helping you understand His divine nature and mission to save humanity.

2. The Book of Matthew

Why: Matthew tells the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. It’s a great starting point for learning about Jesus’ teachings and the Kingdom of God.

3. The Book of Psalms

Why: Psalms is a collection of prayers, songs, and poems that express a wide range of human emotions. It’s a comforting place to turn when you need encouragement, strength, or hope.

4. The Book of Romans

Why: Romans offers a deep understanding of Christian faith, grace, and salvation. It’s a foundational book for learning about God’s love, righteousness, and the new life you have in Christ.

5. The Book of Ephesians

Why: Ephesians helps new Christians understand their identity in Christ, spiritual blessings, and how to live out their faith in everyday life. It’s practical and full of encouragement.

6. The Book of Proverbs

Why: Proverbs is full of wisdom for daily living. It provides practical advice on relationships, decision-making, and godly living, making it a valuable book for new believers.

7. The Book of Acts

Why: Acts tells the story of the early church and how the first followers of Jesus spread the gospel. It’s an inspiring account of faith, courage, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

8. The Book of Philippians

Why: Philippians is a short but powerful book that focuses on joy, perseverance, and contentment in Christ, even in difficult circumstances.

Next Steps

Start with these books, and remember that reading the Bible isn’t about rushing through it—it’s about understanding and applying God’s Word to your life. Take your time, reflect on what you read, and ask God to speak to your heart through His Word.

This is the beginning of an incredible journey. Keep pursuing Jesus, and you will grow in your faith, understanding, and relationship with God.

Key Bible Verses to Strengthen Your Faith:

• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

• Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will."

• Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

• Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Step 2: Spend Time in Prayer

Prayer is your direct line to God. Over these 40 days, make it a habit to talk to God daily. Share your fears, your doubts, your hopes, and your struggles. The more you pray, the more you will experience God’s peace and guidance.

When doubts come—“Is God real? Does He really love me? Does He have a promise for me?”—bring them to God in prayer. Ask Him to reveal Himself to you and give you the faith to keep trusting Him.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Step 3: Listen to Worship Music

Worship music is a powerful way to connect with God. It allows you to praise Him, even in difficult times, and reminds you of His greatness and love. Set aside time each day to listen to worship music. Let the words of the songs draw you closer to God and fill your heart with His presence.

Step 4: Find a Mentor and Seek Discipleship

One of the best ways to grow in your faith is to find a mentor—someone who has been following Jesus for a while and can guide you on your journey. Ask your pastor or a trusted Christian leader to disciple you. Discipleship involves learning from someone who can help you understand the Bible, pray effectively, and navigate the challenges of the Christian life.

Step 5: Understand the Enemy—The Devil

As you pursue Jesus, you will face spiritual battles. The devil is real, and he will try to fill your mind with doubts and lies. He might make you question God’s existence, His love, or His promises. But remember, you have the power to resist the devil by remembering Jesus and focusing on Him and reaching out to Christian friends.

Key Bible Verses for Spiritual Warfare:

• Ephesians 6:11-12: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

• James 4:7: "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

• 1 Peter 5:8-9: "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings."

The 40-Day Battle Plan: A Bible Reading Guide

Here’s a 40-day Bible reading plan to help you stay focused on Jesus:

Week 1: The Foundations of Faith

• Day 1: John 1:1-18 (Jesus, the Word)

• Day 2: John 3:1-21 (Being Born Again)

• Day 3: Romans 5:1-11 (Justification Through Faith)

• Day 4: Psalm 23 (The Lord is My Shepherd)

• Day 5: Ephesians 2:1-10 (Saved by Grace)

• Day 6: Matthew 7:7-11 (Ask, Seek, Knock)

• Day 7: Romans 8:31-39 (God’s Unfailing Love)

Week 2: Building Your Relationship with God

• Day 8: Psalm 139:1-18 (God Knows You Intimately)

• Day 9: Matthew 6:5-15 (The Lord’s Prayer)

• Day 10: Philippians 4:4-9 (Rejoice in the Lord Always)

• Day 11: James 1:2-8 (Trials and Perseverance)

• Day 12: Psalm 91 (God’s Protection)

• Day 13: Isaiah 40:28-31 (Strength for the Weary)

• Day 14: John 15:1-17 (Abiding in Christ)

Week 3: Overcoming Doubts and Fears

• Day 15: Matthew 11:28-30 (Rest in Jesus)

• Day 16: 1 John 4:7-21 (God is Love)

• Day 17: Psalm 46 (God is Our Refuge)

• Day 18: Hebrews 11:1-16 (Faith in Action)

• Day 19: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (Fix Your Eyes on the Eternal)

• Day 20: Isaiah 43:1-7 (Fear Not, For I Am With You)

• Day 21: Romans 12:1-2 (Renewing Your Mind)

Week 4: Strength for the Battle

• Day 22: Ephesians 6:10-18 (The Armor of God)

• Day 23: 1 Peter 1:3-9 (Living Hope Through Christ)

• Day 24: Joshua 1:1-9 (Be Strong and Courageous)

• Day 25: Philippians 1:3-11 (Growing in Love and Knowledge)

• Day 26: 2 Timothy 1:6-12 (Spirit of Power, Love, and Discipline)

• Day 27: Psalm 121 (Help Comes From the Lord)

• Day 28: Colossians 3:1-17 (Living a New Life in Christ)

Week 5: Finishing Strong

• Day 29: Galatians 5:16-26 (Walking by the Spirit)

• Day 30: Hebrews 12:1-3 (Running the Race with Perseverance)

• Day 31: John 17 (Jesus Prays for Believers)

• Day 32: Revelation 21:1-7 (A New Heaven and a New Earth)

• Day 33: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (Rejoice Always, Pray Continually)

• Day 34: Psalm 27 (The Lord is My Light and Salvation)

• Day 35: Romans 15:13 (The God of Hope)

Final Days: Closer to Jesus

• Day 36: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (New Creation in Christ)

• Day 37: Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission)

• Day 38: Acts 1:1-11 (The Ascension of Jesus)

• Day 39: 2 Peter 1:3-11 (Growing in Faith and Godliness)

• Day 40: Psalm 150 (Praise the Lord)

Conclusion: A New Life in Christ

This 40-day journey is just the beginning of your new life in Christ. As you continue to seek Him through prayer, Bible reading, worship, and discipleship, you will grow in your faith and experience the incredible love and power of God in your life.

Remember, the enemy will try to discourage you and fill your mind with doubts, but God is greater than any obstacle you face. Keep pressing forward, knowing that Jesus is with you every step of the way. You are not alone in this journey. Seek Him first, and everything else will fall into place.

Let’s pray together: "God, I want to know how to have a relationship with You. Help me to trust You, to seek You, and to stay close to You, even when doubts arise. Strengthen my faith as I pursue You over these 40 days. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Stay strong, and keep your eyes on Jesus. The journey is worth it.