The Apostle Paul gives voice to a heartfelt conviction in Romans 8:38-39:
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This statement from Paul does not come from the board room or a think tank or work done with consultants and task forces. I am against none of those mentioned above items, I have taken part in all of those kinds of meetings and activities. To have real conviction it has to bubble out of the deepest recesses of our lives. More than words, they come from a place of reflection. In essence, they speak as a testimony that comes from having real-world expertise.
The phrase, “I am convinced,” is such a strong statement of affirmation. The Apostle Paul does not say, “I think,” “it is mostly so,” “or there is a high probability.” He is sure. So convinced, that he cannot be talked out of it or persuaded that he is mistaken. Confidence can be informed by our knowledge, beliefs, and training, yet confident conviction comes from our beliefs being lived out daily in the world. Paul had a lot of experience with setbacks, trials, personal attacks, and spiritual battles as He preached and taught the gospel message. Paul could say that he had faith in God, and on top of that, he had seen the provision of the Lord so many times that it led him to a place of rock-solid confidence.
All around me, I see fear and anxiety on the faces and in the voices of so many today. Will the pandemic ever subside? Who will win the election? Is anarchy the new norm? These and thousands of other questions are being asked often silently by the folks with whom we travel this world. Whether I like the way things are transpiring right now, I must step back and remember in unsettled times there is a Savior!
Regardless of my opinions of a lot of things happening today, there is one thing of which I am convinced: God is God, and He is in control. I am confident that He will keep me and whether I stay here or go to be with Him, He is for me, and He will keep me.
In other words, it is as Paul says: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Too much of our confidence is misplaced today. Some are confident in their politics and philosophical beliefs. Others are confident in their abilities and resources. Some are confident in their positions and their ability to make a living. I have come to understand everything in this world is built on ‘sinking sand.” Christ is the Solid Rock
Today I am quite confident, not in myself or what I can do, and I am convinced that He knows what He is doing. I will put my trust in Him.
Are you confident?
