Convictions

Convictions Paper

Amber Baillio

Ohio Christian University

Author Note

Paper written for CM 3000 Christian Excellence, Professor Sanejo Leonard, 23 September, 2013.

Convictions Paper

The first conviction Johnston describes we should not rely on is oracles, wizardry, Shamanism, or blind fate. (Johnston, 1996, p.131). These convictions lead us to think only what we think and are based on notions, emotions, quirk, or illusion. (Johnston, 1996, p.131). A lot of superstitions gives us an imagination that if we rely on them, it will determine an positive outcome which we think is real or acceptable, when in fact the only true good source of standards are those required by god, such as he’s wisdom. If we take the time to stay in prayer and listen to his voice, he will surely guide us in the path we should go. The second conviction consists of a selfish ego. The way we look, talk, and the way we present ourselves stand out from the crowd. Here we separate ourselves from all the others. We tend to either use these mechanisms as a tool to reach out and help others, or to use it to show pride. As for god he does not like for us to be boastful about anything but him, he is a jealous god, he created the universe and things for which are in this world. The energy used to showcase are ego, we could be given it to praise him for his blessings and those to come. Thirdly, some convictions are generated by not wanting to accept change. Traditionally, people hide themselves behind beliefs and conduct. (Johnston, 1996, p.132). They choose alternate ways to discipline children, finding different ways to communicate, and contrasting methods of serving god. (Johnston, 1996, p.132). These kinds of convictions contradict values and principles. These types of convictions I believe start from how we were brought up from childhood. As children we learn from our parents, teachers or some type of remodel, and a belief system starts to form. In some cases, it...