January 4, 2009
New Life Convictions!
Mike Fritscher, pastor

Ephesians 5:15-21

New Life Convictions Instead of New Year's Resolutions!

1. Because the very nature of the Christian Life is now!

2 Corinthians 6:2 for He says, "At the acceptable time I listened to you, and on the day of salvation I helped you"; behold, now is "the acceptable time," behold, now is "the day of salvation"--

2. Because Everyday is a new Opportunity to Hear God!

Hebrews 3:7 Therefore, just as the Holy Spirit says, "TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, 8 DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS

Hebrews 3:13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called "Today ," so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

3. Because We Are Never Promised Tomorrow Much Less the Year!
James 4:13-16

Psalm 39:5 "Behold, Thou hast made my days {as} handbreadths, and my lifetime as nothing in Thy sight, surely every man at his best is a mere breath.

1 Peter 1:24 For, "All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls off, (NAS)

1 Peter 4: 7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober {spirit} for the purpose of prayer.

You may not be promised tomorrow in this life, but if you are in Christ, you are promised forever in the life to come. It is called eternal life.

I John 2:17 and the world is passing away, and {also} its lusts; but the one who does the will of God abides forever. (NAS)

New Life Convictions! Ephesians 5:15-21

I. Walk Wisely – Make the Most of Your Time!
James 3:13-20

Deuteronomy 4:6-9 - This is your wisdom and understanding!

II. Understand God's Will!

III. Be Controlled by the Spirit

Paul is not talking about the baptism of the Spirit, or of the Spirit indwelling your life. Every believer has been baptized by the spirit and is indwelt by the spirit.

Acts 5:32 "And we are witnesses of these things; and {so is} the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him."

Being filled with the Spirit:
1. Living by God's Word.
2. Living in the continual awareness of God's Presence.
3. Living Your Life In God's Power! Acts 1:6-8

Convictions of the New Life! The Way of Jesus!