Do I have to give up things when I become saved or a Christian?

   The question should not be if "I have to", but if "I want to". Many people have this concern as they see religion as "do’s" and "don’ts".  As you see and understand the Kingdom of Heaven and God’s nature and character the things that you were holding onto become less important.  You will see that your sin (rebellion) grieves God and hurts him.  As your heart changes so will your reason for living. True love always involves sacrifice for the others greatest good. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold, all things become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Trust that God will do a work in you (Psalm 51:10, Philippians. 1:6, Romans 8:11).  As you allow Him to have His way in yourself, what you originally thought was difficult to let go of now becomes easier.  The things of the world will become irrelevant in the light of eternity (1 John 2:15-17). 

   The mind must be renewed in Him (Romans 12:2, Colossians 3:10).  There will be struggles and temptations in the process (2 Corinthians 4:16, Galatians 6:8-9) but God always makes a way of escape when we are tempted (1 Corinthians 10:12-13). Sometimes life’s past hurts and wounds have scarred us and leave bitter memories.  This many times influences the way we believe, think and act! Those areas which seem to be difficult to overcome must be prayed for.  "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find Grace to help in time of need “(Hebrews 4:16).  His Grace is available to you (Hebrews 12:28, 1 Corinthians 15:10, Philippians 4:13).  There is a great difference in your willingness to wanting to obey as opposed to having to obey. God is worthy to be served and we owe Him much for what He has done. Love Him today with all your heart!!!