Convictions

By Pastora Monique Lopez Ong

Conviction is not just the knowledge of right and wrong. Many Christians have a lot of head knowledge. That is why they are still in sin. Conviction is not a guilty conscience. It is not shame over our sin too. Conviction is not confemnation of punishment.

In tha bible, the word convict is translated to “elencio.” It means to convince someone of the truth, to reprove evil, to accuse the guilty, to refute what is wrong or to cross examine a witness. Where was it first mentioned in the Bible? John 16:8-11 says, “And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me. Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more. Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged.” The righteousness of Jesus is being talked about here. When the Holy Spirit comes, He will convict the people of their sins. It is His function.

Conviction is the work of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit exposes and makes us aware of our sin and unbelief. Isaiah 6:5 says, “Then I said, “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.””

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The Holy Spirit convicts us of Jesus’ righteousness and makes is see our need for a Savior. Acts 16:30-31 says, “Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.””

The Holy Spirit leads us into repentance. Acts 17:30 says, ““God overlooked people’s ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him.”

The Holy Spirit guides us into the truth. John 16:13 says, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.”

The Holy Spirit gives us a courageous stand. John 14:26 says, “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” Daniel 1:8 also says, “But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods.”

Conviction is a deep, spirit-led persuasion of truth that produces repentance, faith; and obedience. It is not just a strong opinion. It is a work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Conviction moves you from the level of religion into a deep spiritual relationship with God. It is anchored in the truth of the word of God. You will not compromise. You will not be swayed by anything.

How to Build Conviction

1. Study God’s Word. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”

2. Yield to the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 says, “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.”

3. Live it out. James 1:22 says, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.”

4. Stand firm in small things. Luke 16:10 says, ““If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.”

If you want to build conviction, lean on the power of the Holy Spirit. He will not let you down.