When Culture Shifts, Conviction Matters More

The enemy always goes after identity first.

* You’re not enough.
* You’re too broken.
* You’ll never change.
* You’re just a number.
* Just a mess-up.
* Just a label.

* You are beautiful.
* You are made in my image.
* You are amazing.
* You are forgiven.
* You are loved.
* You are a child of God.
* I've called you to something bigger.

Daniel Pre-Decided Who He Was

You will never rise to the level of your intentions. You will default to the level of your decisions.

You’re Stronger When You’re Not Alone

What gave their faith traction wasn’t just their individual decisions, it was the fact that they walked it out together.

Who’s your “them”?

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”
- Jim Rohn

Expect Pushback When You Live with Conviction

They couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn in ______________, because he or she was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy.

Kneeling to pray is what gives you the strength to stand

You don’t have to be rude to be bold. You don’t have to burn bridges to take a stand.

God has placed you right where you are… on purpose.

* Remember who God says you are.
* Pre-decide not to compromise.
* You’re Stronger When You’re Not Alone.
* Expect Pushback When You Live with Conviction.
* Kneeling to pray is what gives you the strength to stand.
* God has placed you right where you are… on purpose.

Will I lovingly challenge the world I live in… or will the world I live in slowly challenge and change me?

Action Steps for this Week:

Here are 3 action steps you can begin thinking through this week:

1. Pre-decide one area where you will not compromise.

Before temptation shows up, draw the line. Maybe it’s how you speak to your spouse, how you date, what you look at online, how you use your money, or whether Sunday is just another day. Don’t wait for pressure to define your convictions… decide now.

2. Identify your “them” and take a step toward them.

Who are your five? The people helping you follow Jesus? If you don’t have that kind of community, don’t wait. Join a group. Reach out to a mentor. Talk to someone after service. Faith was never meant to be a solo journey.

3. Set a daily prayer rhythm… morning, midday, and evening.

It doesn’t have to be long, but it does need to be intentional. Even if it’s just 60 seconds, stop and re-center around God three times a day. Like Daniel, let prayer be your rhythm before it's your rescue.