Baptism is the first step on a joyful path back to our heavenly home: a covenant path sprinkled with blessings, even miracles

Note: this is the second article in a series of messages dedicated to sharing the incredible power and peace that come from binding ourselves to God in a covenant relationship. In my previous article I gave an introduction to covenant-making, as shown by Jesus’ close relationship with his Heavenly Father.

A covenant forms a personal, committed relationship between a person and God, where both parties are bound to be loyal and faithful to each other. God desires this special connection with ALL his children – that’s me and you. He has established this special union so He can help us and change us forever.

Baptism, as Jesus showed by example, is the essential initial step to establishing such a relationship.

How my covenant story began

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Chinese Proverb

My own covenant journey also began with baptism. That’s how it starts for all of us. It’s the start to a lifelong path with God – a covenant path – His path, that leads us back to His presence. A path marked by the Son of God, when he walked the earth.

I had been taught by my parents that baptism means being willing to obey God and serve Him and His children (that’s everyone) for the rest of my life, as did Jesus; with the promise that God would help me throughout my life, especially by having patience with me and forgiving me when I fall short. In short, it means following and walking with Jesus Christ, and become more like him as we do so.

This was something I was certainly willing to do, especially considering the help that was promised. So, when I was about 8 years old, I chose to be baptized.

All dressed in white, my father and I stepped into the water, and in God’s appointed way, my father baptized me: he said a prayer, gently submerged me in the water, and then promptly lifted me up again out of the water. And then we embraced.

In that moment, I felt a special closeness with my father and with all those who witnessed my baptism. What’s more, I felt closer to my Heavenly Father, and sensed that He was near and was pleased with my choice. And this made me feel peaceful, renewed, and hopeful about my future.

What I didn’t realize at that time was the profound impact my decision to covenant with God by baptism would have on me throughout my life. This simple act, symbolizing my commitment to God, and His undying commitment to me, continues to bring joy and many other blessings to me and my family to this day.

What kind of blessings, you ask? Ah. THAT is what I wish to share with you and everyone in the days to come, and maybe forever, because His promised blessings can’t be numbered, and God wants to share them with everyone!

Don’t get me wrong. My covenant connection with God by baptism has by no means kept me free from challenges. But, as I flip back through the chapters of my life, I can see that Heaven’s blessings have always attended me through my challenges (Psalm 23:6), making them easier to bear, as I’ve tried my best to remain faithful to my commitment to God.

By keeping covenant with God, I have actually come to count on God’s promised peace and joy, and other powerful blessings, even miracles! In coming articles, I will share several miracles that I know were nothing less than the fulfillment of God’s covenantal promises.

My friends, Heaven’s untold promises can be yours too, as you make and honor your own covenant with God, beginning at your baptism.

By the way, baptism is only the beginning. Many other covenant steps – made in a House of the Lord (temple) – await those who start this journey with God. Each additional covenant brings us closer and closer to God, unleashing even more promised blessings into our lives.

If you haven’t yet been baptized, I invite you to carefully consider preparing yourself to take your first step onto the covenant path. It is no small commitment, so take the time you need to learn more and set your house in order so to speak.

I know some friends of mine who’s purpose it is to help people prepare to covenant with God. They’re called missionaries. Missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They can share more and answer your questions. You can reach them here at comeuntochrist.org

If you were once baptized – when you were young, or not so young – and have broken your promises with God, I have great news for you! Your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you, nor has he forgotten His covenant and his promised blessings to you (Isaiah 49:14-16). One of His incredible promises to you is that he will continue to love you, have mercy on you and forgive you when you sincerely repent (meaning to turn back to him). You can fully restore your pledge to God (Ezekiel 33:14-16) and get back on the covenant path because of the power of Jesus Christ. I know this is true because I have experienced His redeeming power myself!

That is all for today. In my next article, I will share an essential element to starting your new walk with God by highlighting a simple yet profound truth taught by Jesus.

Related song: I Will Walk with Jesus: words and music by Stephen P. Schank