Convinced

Text: Romans 14:5-9

Theme: Followers of the Lord should lived convinced–not wondering.

Key verses: “…some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is acceptable” (v. 5). “For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. Christ died and rose again for this very purpose–to be Lord both of the living and of the dead” (v. 7-9).

What God said to me: Dwayne, good morning on your first day in Kenya. Trust me today to be with you and your team. I have opened the doors for you, connecting you with the very pastors and people I want you to partner with. Stay humble and teachable, ever listening for my still, small voice of leading and correcting. Now, regarding this passage, there are 3 things of which believers need to be convinced. First, you need to fully convinced that what you are doing is acceptable to me. And it will only be acceptable to me if it is acceptable to other believers–even those who are weaker in faith than you. That’s not to imply you should be a “people-pleaser.” But rather, seek to point people toward me in your words and your deeds, and be sensitive to the beliefs and concerns of your fellow Christians. Secondly, be convinced you are honoring me in all you do. Your fleshly mind is sneaky. It likes to scheme its evil plans. Die to that mind. You have the mind of Christ–think like it! Only you can know whether your motives match your actions. Do you really want to honor me? Are you sure? Are you convinced? Third, you must be convinced (the KJV says “fully persuaded”) that you are worshiping me through what you do. To truly honor me is worship me. A big part of worship is being sensitive and loving toward to other believers. Are you convinced you are thinking of others in every little thing you do? This is important. Being convinced doesn’t mean you “think” your deeds are acceptable to me or you “hope” they are. You can know. You can be convinced–not to the point that you force your beliefs on others though, mind you. You are convinced for yourself based on what you understand about Scripture and my Spirit guiding you. Only you can know that for certain. And only you will stand before me for you.

What I said to God: I wish my first response was “thank You.” But instead, I’m thinking, “Woe is me, for I am undone.” You have exposed the motives of my heart. You have gotten in my space. Forgive me when I want to just gloss over things you say in Your Word and assume I am “ok” with You. I must be fully persuaded before You. Please help me love my fellow believers and put their needs and concerns before my own. Help me listen attentively when they speak of what they believe and think. Even if I don’t agree, may I look for ways not to intentionally offend them or discount their beliefs.