Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Developing Convictions

READ: Jeremiah 17:5-9

An acorn needs nutrients and time to grow into a tall, sturdy oak tree. Likewise, men and women of conviction develop gradually through committed Bible study and prayer. Ready to get planted firmy in biblical truth? Here's how:

Make a list of issues for which you need to form a conviction. Here are questions to help you get started: Do you consider the Bible true and trustworthy? Do you think that believing in Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved? What is the Holy Spirit's role in the lives of believers and unbelievers? Are we to forgive others in every situation? How should Christians approach finances? What's your purpose in life? What is your role in the church and at work? How should you think and act regarding social issues like capital punsihment, abortion , and racism?

It is my hope that these questions will open the eyes of those who haven't contemplated how their personal philosophies have developed. It's time to change that. Study the Bible and make God's Word the cornerstone of your thinking. A concordance will point you to scriptures that relate to the above topics. Evaluate what the Bible says rather than looking at an issue through the lens of personal preference. Ask, What does God say? rather than What does this mean to me?

Once you know what God says, you have a choice to make: Believe Him and commit to living according to your conviction, or continue being tossed by waves of doubt and indecision (James 1:6) Root yourself in God's Word and be called one of His oaks of righteousness (Isa. 61:3)

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from Intouch magazine, January 2011 issue

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