While in high school, I got into a huge argument with one of my good friends; we almost came to blows! We finally calmed ourselves down and ended up laughing at ourselves due to the nature of the argument. Our big blow-out resulted from a fairly ordinary discussion for high-school boys: we all worked on our cars, and we would compare notes about tools, techniques, and in this instance, which oil was best to use in our older v8 engines. He commented that a particular oil brand was best, and I countered that another brand, the one I preferred, was even better. He and I went back and forth for some time, tempers flared, and I believed we would have to 'duke it out!' Fortunately, we both caught ourselves, and then I explained that my dad had always used 'my' oil; he gave a sheepish smile and admitted that 'his' oil was one his father always used. We both started laughing, having realized just how silly we were: neither one of us knew anything about oil, we were just going on what our fathers had said. Our 'convictions' about oil quality weren't really convictions; they were just simple preferences that neither of us had ever seriously considered.

Of course, this was a silly and childish argument, but I have had occasion to think of it often over the years. The notion of 'life choices' and 'convictions' is an important one for at least two simple reasons: First, our choices and convictions, and how we form them, can have a significant impact on our lives, our relationships, and the way we serve God and his Kingdom. Secondly, the type of convictions that drive our lives can determine our witness for Christ to those around us.

John the Baptist, Jesus' cousin, was one who had developed certain convictions around the issue of godly faith, and these convictions controlled his life! No matter where he was or who he was talking to, his convictions of faith in God and Jesus, God's Son, determined every action and word! Whenever John spoke, those around him knew where he stood when it came to matters of living out one's faith in the One God. He spoke forcefully against sin and made the case for honest repentance and living out one's faith in a way that would please God. Also, wherever he lived and whatever he said, he demonstrated his belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who was the promised Messiah. His convictions were chosen based on his life experiences and how he had seen God work. In addition, his actions and words purposefully made the case for a life based upon faith in Jesus as the fulfillment of the Jewish faith. Here is just a small portion of what John spoke, based upon his God-given convictions:

John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of

repentance for the forgiveness of sins. . . And he was preaching and saying, "After me One is coming who is mightier than I, and I am not fit to stoop down and untie the thong of His sandals. I baptized you will water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." Mark 1:4, 7-8

I urge you to consider the convictions that will shape your life. Choose your beliefs wisely and let them guide your actions. Base your life on the teachings of Jesus, who sacrificed himself and rose again. Plan your life according to your faith in Him. Your life will gain purpose and significance, and others will be inspired by the power of your faith.

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