Why do you think our society is falling apart around us? Why do you think we have reached the present state of moral corruption and violence in America? Why are the foundation of our homes falling apart? Why are so many people struggling with their very existence, having no real purpose for living? Why has the church seemingly lost its power? Where is the influence of the people of God?
There is only one answer to all these questions. We have forsaken our God given convictions for a philosophy of situational ethics.
We have forsaken the biblical principles that God has given us to guide us through life. and whenever a nation begins to forsake the convictions which are based on scripture, that nation begins to drift.
Governments, churches, God’s people have forsaken their convictions. It is possible to have beliefs, but no bible convictions. They have forsaken conviction for an easier way of life.
It seems America has “preferences”, but no convictions. A preference is a choice based on desires, wishes, likes or dislikes. A conviction is the principle to which I am committed regardless of the circumstances. Too many people have preferences without convictions.
I wonder if you have ten basic convictions you could write down. Unwavering principles to which you have committed yourself. For example: bible, morals, or marriage.
Too many of our leaders have substituted preferences for convictions. Conviction anchors a man to truth. When times get tough, will you choose the easy way of preference, rather than stand upon convictions? Our children need to grow up with character and strength exhibited before them. Strength of character, unwilling to bend a knee when we know that a principle is at stake.
There are three essentials to becoming men and women of conviction.
I. There Must be a Cause Greater than Ourselves
1. Is your whole life wrapped up in yourself?
2. Has Jesus Christ ever become a cause in your life? 1 Samuel 17:29
3. There is a bible principle about life.
a. You live your life for self = you lose!
b. You live your life for Jesus and others = you win!
4. More examples
a. Rich man. Luke 12:15-21
b. Disciples and qualifications for following. Luke 14:25-33
c. Paul. Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:20-21
5. God’s purpose and plan is greater than our own little world.
6. Any person who is not committed to a cause greater than themself will not have much conviction.
II. Clarity of Conviction
1. We must have our convictions clearly defined.
a. Not only for ourselves, but also for our family.
2. Does your family know where you stand on certain issues?
3. You must stand for and against some things. 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
4. Eli, the priest, knew he did not enforce right and wrong with his sons. 1 Samuel 3:12-14
5. Deuteronomy 11:18
III. Expect Conflict and Consequences for Following Your Convictions. Acts 20:18-32, John 15:18-23, 1 Peter 2:21-23
1. Peer pressure, not everyone is going to accept your convictions.
2. Family pressure
a. Principles don’t change to fit your personality.
b. The Dad needs to be the spiritual leader.
c. Do not surrender your convictions.
3. Litigation pressure does not matter what our law says about moral principles of right and wrong.
4. Death pressure
a. This conviction must be self-determined, not influenced by what others do or ask you to do.
b. Daniel, the three Hebrew children.
c. Foxe’s Book of Martyrs
There are two ways we gain bible convictions
1. Through the word of God.
2. Through prayer to God.
Motto of French Foreign Legion
If I Stumble – Pick Me Up
If I Falter – Push Me On
If I Retreat – Shoot Me
