The Struggle With Guilt
“So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’ They answered Him, ‘We are Abraham’s descendants and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, ‘You will become free?’” Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. “The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever. “So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed”
(John 8:31-36).
Guilt leads to all sorts of mind games. Have you ever been honestly surprised at some of the thoughts running through your mind during times of intense regret? Let’s take a quick look at some results of this dangerous “game.”
First of all, guilt has the potential to shake our faith. We may marvel at our deplorable behavior and think, ‘There’s no way I can really be forgiven – God can’t still love me after I acted this way.’
Second, guilt breeds fear – fear of both discovery and consequences, to name a couple. Satan wants you to keep looking over your shoulder; that way, you can’t keep your eyes on where you’re going!
Third, guilt leads to the desire for punishment. We may start to isolate ourselves or drive people away because we feel unworthy of their love. This is another satanic trap. Just as in war, a soldier standing alone is an easy target for the Enemy.
Fourth, guilt causes immense insecurity. A guilty conscience naturally results in thinking, I’m not good enough. If I were a better Christian, I wouldn’t have done that. No wonder nobody likes me.
If you are struggling with the issue of guilt, I pray that you will leave your remorse behind you and affirm these three things: I am special. I am loved. I am forgiven. Say them out loud as a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord: Say them repeatedly, letting the words sink into your consciousness.
Jesus wants you to be an active soldier for Him. Do not let the Enemy take you out of the battle.
Related Links:
Handling Your Parents’ Finances:
http://retirementwithapurpose.com/mmprntfinc.html
About the Author
This article was written by Charles Stanley. You can read more about this author by clicking this link:
http://www.talk.thelife.com/charles-stanley/
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