OK, I was just about to shut down and got to thinking about a point that is in tomorrow’s message for the church that I think is worth struggling with.
A belief is something we hold onto; a conviction is something that holds onto us.
That sounds simple enough but if you try to imply it as a Christian, it makes you really think. There are many things I believe that may or may not effect my life. However, my convictions, the things that have really grabbed a hold of my life, drive me. Convictions I hold are the need to do my part of ministry, the need to take care of my family, to do business in an integrity manner, these are a few things that drive my day to day decisions.
Then there are things that I believe that sometimes don’t really sink into action sometimes. One I have been struggling with lately is resting in God’s hands that He has all things in control. I know this to be true of course. I believe it with all my heart! Yet, so often do I feel the stress of the world, especially the business of the store on my shoulders. Why? I hold to my belief but I am growing it into a conviction. God has been patient with me and is disciplining me in this. Though I notice the growth, I am eager for the day that the knowledge of God’s providence is a conviction that drives me forward instead of something I try to remember when I’m locked up in stress.
What other areas, as Christians do we believe that should be a conviction? Past a belief of what we should do to a conviction of what we naturaly do? Maybe how we handle our finances? Or how we treat our spouse or kids? Maybe it’s taking care of the poor or needy? How about giving up some TV time to participate in the needs of your church community? Then of course there is not spending your whole day complaining about Christian community but being a part of the solution in your local church body in love?
Here’s a fun one….When it comes to the Great Commission (Matthew 28: 16-20), do you believe you have a call to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ or are you convicted you need to?
Well, just some passing thoughts. Do what you will….
Emerging Conservative 
Have always been taught that a belief is what I hold and a conviction holds me.r