Faith.
Decisions we make generally follow, either subconsciously or with forethought, a three-step process. We have a principle we believe in, establish a conviction(s) based on that principle, and formulate a standard(s) to coincide with our conviction(s). This is true in various areas, but we will only look at two-religious(spiritual) and political. There can be, and often is, overlap between the two.
For full disclosure, so we all know where I’m coming from, politically my principles come from the Declaration of Independence and our Constitution, our founding and supreme documents. This then automatically eliminates anything contradictory to those two. Spiritually, my foundation is solely God’s Word-the Bible. This also then automatically eliminates any denominational or religious man-made dogma that is not, and cannot be, supported by Scripture.
Now that our groundwork is laid, let me give some examples:
A political example:
- Principle: Article One, Section 8 of the Constitution lists the limited power/authority of the federal government. Articles Nine and Ten of the Bill of Rights clarify that any authority not given directly to the Federal Government by the Constitution is reserved “to the states respectively, or to the people”.
- Conviction: areas such as health and education are not legal areas for which the federal government has authority.
- Standard #1: I will vote for candidates who understand and support the plain language of the Constitution.
- Standard #2: I will support financially candidates who understand and support the plain language of the Constitution.
A political and spiritual example, leading to the same standard:
- Principle: The Declaration states that one of our rights that comes from God is the right to life and it is the governments responsibility to enforce and uphold that right.
- Conviction: scientifically life begins at conception when a person with an entirely new DNA is conceived. Different DNA than father or mother-a new body-not “part of the mother’s body”.
- Standard #1: Any laws or edicts that violate that principle are illegitimate.
- Standard #2: I will actively be involved in the pro-life movement, striving to help both the baby and the parents.
- Principle: The Bible teaches that life begins at conception (Psalm 51:5) and God hates “hands that shed innocent blood” (Proverbs 6:17)
- Conviction: There is no one more innocent than a babe in the womb.
- Standard: I will actively be involved in the pro-life movement, striving to help both the baby and the parents.
Contrary to popular teaching, the Supreme Court is not the Supreme law of the land, it is the Constitution and Declaration of Independence.
What are your principles that form the foundation of your convictions, standards and behavior? Our political disaster today is because most of those in elected office, of both major parties, have no principle other than to get reelected or accrue power to themselves.
Dr. Lonnie W. Stine, Pastor – Badger Community Church
11198 Badger Drive, Waupaca, WI
An independent, Bible teaching, local church
Sunday: 9:00 am Bible Study, 10:00 am Morning Worship
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