“Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. (Galatians 6:7-10 NLT)
Recently this passage was preached in our church and the Pastor made the comment that most times this is preached in a negative way. He is right. But he said further that while this is true, it is also a powerful and positive message of encouragement.
Our convictions define who we are. They guide our decisions and determine our character. Those who live by their convictions are not swayed by personal preferences or popular opinions. They live by Biblical attitudes that have long been established by God’s Word. Strong, biblically-based values are essential for everyone who wants to lead a godly life.
But what is a conviction? It’s a belief we hold to be true, no matter what. In today’s culture, you and I need to base our standards on biblical truth.
Then we will be firmly anchored in God’s Word, ready to face whatever challenges come our way. Only by acknowledging our dependence on God for His guidance and protection can we survive in a culture that is increasingly hostile to Christianity.
Noah needed strong faith to build an ark, despite the ridicule of his neighbors. But he trusted God when God said there would be a flood. Although Paul was persecuted, stoned, imprisoned, beaten, and eventually martyred, he didn’t give up his convictions. When the authorities told Peter and John to stop preaching about Jesus, they replied, “Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:19-20 NLT)
The Lord wants us to live by conviction. Unfortunately, most people live by preference. They ask themselves, “What do I desire? What is the easiest or best for my life? What will bring the most satisfaction or acceptance?”
For a believer, our decisions should be based on personal convictions—strong beliefs we hold based on the truth of God’s Word—and not on our own preferences.
Remember that we reap what we plant. If we follow after our fleshly convictions and what gives us the most pleasure, then what follows will come from those convictions. If, however, we obey God and His plan, then what follows will be abundant blessing.
What can believers expect when the live by their convictions?
First there will be God’s protection. God will cover each situation we face with HIS glory and Grace. Paul himself said God’s grace is sufficient for him? It should be for us also.
There will be pain and testing. Those who want to live according to their convictions will be tested. When we are falsely accused and mistreated, we need to stick to our moral standards. The history of our faith is filled with men and women who refused to deny their convictions, even to the point of death.
There will be promotion. God will honor and bless those who hold firmly to godly beliefs.
Those who choose to sow and follow the leading of the flesh will see God’s work in the lives of others. People today want to know if our life is consistent with biblical values because too many times they have seen other “Christians” say one thing and do another. We must focus on being a believer who lives according to godly standards wherever we are whether it is at home, work, play, or in the community.
Instead of allowing society to set our values and priorities, you and I should base our convictions on the Bible. We need to aim not to show the wrong thing to others with ungodly choices and behavior. Ask God to grant us the desire and the courage to be a man or woman who lives by our convictions, no matter what.
Hello Again!!
7 years ago
