“What are you waiting for? Get up and be baptized. Have your sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:16 (NLT)

Giving my life to Jesus was the best thing I’ve ever done. When I repented of my sin and asked Him to save me, that was only the beginning. Salvation isn’t the final destination; it’s the key that unlocks an exciting, life-long adventure of faith.

My baptism became a marker for that moment. Baptism doesn’t secure your salvation. It’s simply a beautiful picture of a changed life before Jesus (going into the water) and after Jesus (coming out of the water). I experienced tremendous joy the day I was baptized, not only because of the change that was already happening inside of me, but my journey was just starting when I was 21.

Along the way, I’ve developed some good habits that have helped me walk in freedom — ones that I’ve shared with you, like journaling, reading Scripture, and cultivating community. But I’ve learned that following Jesus isn’t a one-time decision. It’s a daily decision.

Every day, I wake up and commit to following Him. Some days, I do a better job of following Him than others. Salvation doesn’t mean we’re suddenly perfect. It simply means we’re committed to looking more like Jesus every day.

I’ve found walking with Jesus is truly the best way to live, but it all starts with that first step. Have you taken that step? Have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins? Have you asked Him to be the Lord of your life?

If you haven’t, I’d invite you to do just that. Your prayer doesn’t have to be polished or poetic. It just has to be genuine and heartfelt.

Once you’ve prayed that prayer, get ready for the greatest adventure of your life. Find a church where you can study God’s Word with people who are further along in their journey of faith. Carve out space to spend time with God through prayer and Scripture every day. Intentionally build a Christian community with other believers who will encourage you and hold you accountable.

Above all, believe that you don’t have to carry the guilt and shame you’ve shouldered for so long. God wants to take that weight from you. Give your heart to Him today. You’ll never be the same.