Standing Firm

I've spent a lot of time debating, learning and studying the controversial topics of Christianity... conservatism versus liberalism. I dont believe either political standpoint is bad, or good... its the people behind those beliefs and their deep down spiritual convictions that determines whether a stance is godly or not. I will admit that I've walked into the gray area several times... a gray area I know now I muddied myself. God gives a clear black and white in His word... it is only through my own justification that I have allowed myself to make the mistakes I have. I know I have a lot I need to ask God forgiveness for. He's made that clear. There are things in my past I can't even admit to myself that I've done. Nothing to harm others... but definately acts that I am deeply ashamed of and will regret for the rest of my life. I'm thankful God will let me start over... that spiritually I can make it as though those things never ever happened, and I can move on and learn from those mistakes never to make them again, and to help others who have fallen into that trap. As a result, I'm also convicted to really stand firm in my beliefs... to stand firm in the truth of God's word. No longer can I say that certain things are "ok"... I know they aren't. It doesn't mean that I can't love people and be friends with them, and respect their right to their own choices. But just because I respect their RIGHT to make that choice, doesn't mean that I like the choice they are making. As a friend, I hope I will be strong, and I hope God will give me the grace and the words to do the right thing, in all situations, in my own life, in talking with friends, and in having political discussions with strangers...