sermonette: Our Identity: Conviction or Convenience?
The Reputation of our Faith
Hunter D. Swanson
Given 09-Aug-25; Sermon #1831s; 15 minutes
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Exploring whether we follow our faith because of conviction or convenience is an essential question we should ask when we seek to determine what motivates our character and long-term actions. Convenience cannot drive our behavior even though it can be beneficial, such as being among brethren on the same walk who are also following God's commandments. Conviction (fixed or firm belief) in our faith and our walk with Christ should be the main driver of our thoughts, behaviors, character, and action. When driven by convenience, our hypocritical character can be revealed to others when a situation occurs, and it is more convenient to follow a non-godly set of values. However, all brethren are imperfect, and they will make mistakes that go against the way of God. This will often happen when tested in a trial (James 1:2-4) designed to strengthen our conviction to help us become stronger and more determined to follow His way. We should remember to be slow to wrath and show mercy to ourselves in addition to getting back on the path and repenting.