God puts up with more than we will ever understand from us humans, pickel. We even killed his Son when he sent him down here. But he still cares for us regardless.
Baptism to me is twofold: the baptism we are given by God when we confess Jesus as our Lord (baptism of the Holy Spirit), and the baptism by water through which we show others we are followers of Jesus.
Everyone who believes Jesus in the only way back into God's family is given the Holy Spirit as a guide, comforter and helper. This happens at the time you acknowldge Jesus as Lord. Mostly this event will be accompanied by an outward change in your lifestyle/behaviours as you choose to follow Jesus' teachings rather than your own thing. This I believe suignifies the first type of baptism (aka
baptism of the Holy Spirtit).
The second kind of baptism is when you publicly acknowledge you are a follower of Jesus by having yourself immerses in water, symbolising the death of the old person and birth of the new. This is know as
baptism by water.
Baptism of Holy Spirit is kind of automatic, and a part of your slvation experience. You may or may not notice the Spirit within you right away, although many claim to feel
different immediately.
Baptism by water is not automatic, and your salvation (saving faith) is not conditional on it. It is a way of demonstrating your faith in action to those around you, but only one of many ways.
I think Dave has a good point when he says to pray and seek guidance on this, as many will tell you different things. Study thoise verses already quoted, and ask god to help you understand them. Talk to those you know who have a close relationship with God about their understanding as well.
Anyway, all this is IMO, understand.
Cheers
Mick