More often than not, we find ourselves either rejoicing or regretting a move we made. Whether these moves are rational or emotional, they stem from motivations within us. Every day, we see individuals and even nations making decisions, sometimes baffling, leaving us wondering what drove them. As Christians, what moves us? Why do we do the things we do? What should guide our actions? I address what it means to be moved by what you believe in, why it is essential, and how to live by this principle. I hope you’ll enjoy it.
What it means
What would your response be if asked what you believe in as a Christian? Personally, I believe that God is the Creator of the universe (see Genesis 1:1). I believe He gave us free will (see Genesis 2:16-17, 3:1-8). I believe in His virgin birth (see Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Luke 2:4-7), His death (see Isaiah 53:5-9, Matthew 27:45-50), and His resurrection (see Psalm 16:10, Hosea 6:1–2, Matthew 27:53). Also, I know I am loved, cherished, and saved (see Romans 8:38-39, Acts 16:31). I understand my duty to share this good news of Christ and the Kingdom of God wherever I find myself (see Matthew 28:19-20). That is His will.
If your beliefs are similar, then being moved by what you believe in means living with Christ and His Kingdom as the foundation of all your actions. Whether in school, your career, or your daily interactions, Christ’s will should guide you. Are you on the right educational or career path? Do your actions reflect Christ in how you treat others, use your resources, or spend your time? A believer’s decisions should always align with God’s will.
Being moved by what you believe in means living with Christ and His Kingdom as the foundation of all your actions.
Why you should
You cannot eat your cake and have it. You cannot claim to love your country and then spy against it; that would prove you do not truly love your country. Similarly, you cannot claim to believe in Christ without letting your actions reflect that belief. God has given us free will and does not force us to love, worship, or follow Him. In the Old Testament, Moses gave the Israelites choices—life or death—and urged them to choose life (see Deuteronomy 30:1-20).
No one is forcing you to act Christ-like, but if you have chosen to believe in Christ, living according to that belief is only natural. Why wouldn’t you? God examines the heart (1 Samuel 16:7) and knows our innermost intentions (Romans 8:27). True belief in Christ should move you to act not for recognition or selfish gain but with a pure heart devoted to His Kingdom.
How to be
No one can truly live by what they believe in without supernatural help. Those who follow smaller gods or demonic forces are aided by those entities. Similarly, people who uphold a constitution are supported by the systems and structures it provides. For instance, Ghana’s 1992 Constitution includes the Directive Principles of State Policy in Chapter 6 to guide and enable citizens to live by its standards.
As Christians, God has put measures in place to help us live according to His will. To be moved by what you believe in means letting God’s Kingdom guide every aspect of your life. A Christian husband can reflect his belief by loving his wife as Christ loved the Church and sacrificed Himself for her (Ephesians 5:25). A wealthy Christian can use their riches to support the poor rather than focusing solely on the rich (Proverbs 14:31). For a student, the motivation to study diligently should not be wealth or status but the understanding that the knowledge gained can serve God’s Kingdom.
In essence, being moved by what you believe in as a Christian means living a life that reflects your faith and commitment to Christ in every decision and action. It is not about perfection but about consistently aligning your motives, choices, and conduct with the will of God. That requires supernatural help, a heart focused on His Kingdom, and a willingness to let Christ guide every aspect of your life. Remember, your belief in Christ is not just a declaration but a way of life. Let your actions speak of your faith, and may your life be a testament to the glory of God’s Kingdom.
