Most people can readily answer the question, What do you believe? But when asked, Why do you believe it? many struggle to respond. Why is that?
I believe the reason lies in what I call "belief grafting." A belief grafter is someone who adopts the belief system of someone else without ever putting it to the test. It could be a parent’s beliefs, a friend’s convictions, a teacher’s worldview, or even the influence of social media. While these sources may provide a solid foundation, failing to test them leaves us vulnerable. If your belief system isn’t your own, you risk living an empty and unstable life.
A lot of folks grow up in a "Christian" or "Religious" household. If stopped on the street, they might say they believe in God and in Jesus, but if they have grafted their belief from others around them without testing those beliefs, that could have negative effects.
Why does this matter? Because your belief system is foundational to everything you do. All your decisions, the people you surround yourself with, and the way you handle challenges stem from what you believe. Don’t you want to ensure that foundation is solid—built on rock and not sinking sand?
The Four Big Questions
Life is short—a mist, as the Bible says. If we only get one chance at this, doesn’t it make sense to get it right? That starts with asking and answering the most important questions:
Who are you? (A question of identity.)
Why are you? (A question of purpose.)
Who is with you? (A question of relationships.)
Whose are you? (A question of who is God in your life.)
You’ve already answered these questions by the way you’re living. But that doesn’t mean your answers can’t change. Critical thinking, humility, and faith can lead to deeper, more satisfying answers.
My Story
For years, I was a belief grafter. I went to church every Sunday but didn’t take it seriously. I was a liar, thief, and cheat with no moral compass. I believed the Big Bang theory because that’s what I was taught in school. If life was a cosmic accident, then love, purpose, and morality were meaningless.
Everything changed when I met my wife and her family, who introduced me to the Bible. Determined to prove it wrong, I researched, questioned, and examined its claims. I found evolution to be an unproven theory and the Bible’s historical accuracy undeniable. Through this journey, I encountered Jesus Christ and realized He was exactly who He claimed to be.
I learned about sin—not just a list of wrongdoings but a fundamental separation from God due to our disobedience. The Bible says:
"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
"The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23).
This sin separates us from God, but God, in His love, sent His Son to bridge the gap. Jesus lived a sinless life, was crucified, and rose from the dead to offer us reconciliation. As Romans 5:8 says, *"While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
What Does Choosing Christ Look Like?
Believing in Jesus isn’t blind faith; it’s a decision based on truth. The Bible promises:
"If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9).
Calling Jesus "Lord" means trusting Him completely and letting Him lead your life. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Since I made that decision on May 25, 1995, my life has been transformed. I now live to serve Him and others, filled with purpose and joy.
What About You?
Have you taken the time to deeply consider your beliefs? Your answers to the four big questions will shape your life and eternity. Here’s a simple way to start:
Reflect on your current beliefs. Are they truly yours, or have you grafted them from others?
Ask yourself if your belief system is grounded in truth or sinking sand.
Consider the claims of Christ and take the time to investigate them.
Remember, we’re not born winners or losers; we’re born choosers. What you choose to believe will make all the difference in this life and beyond.
A Final Invitation
If you’re ready to take the next step, here’s a prayer to help guide you:
Lord, I admit that I am a sinner. I ask for Your forgiveness and invite You to be my Savior and Lord. Help me trust You fully and live a life that honors You. Amen.
So, what do you believe? And more importantly, why?