What Do I Do with Feelings of Guilt?
CONVERSATIONS
“Why did I do that? I’m so stupid!” “It’s hopeless!” “There’s nothing anyone can do about it…” “It’s too late to change anything. . .” “Why can’t I get my act together?” “What's wrong with me??”
There are people who feel guilty about never doing enough. And there are people, on the other extreme end, whose conscience are so hardened ,they never feel guilty about the wrong they do. Instead they blame society, or a sickness or someone else for their own wrongdoing.
How then can a Christian handle feelings of guilt?
1. Identify the source of guilt.
Is it God convicting you of sin? Or is it the devil condemning you ? What’s the difference? God convicts you of sin, to give you an opportunity to be set free. The devil accuses and condemns, so he can keep you stuck in a cycle of guilt. 
2. Apply God’s solution.
Don’t underestimate the power of the cross of Jesus Christ to set you free. God knows people are sinners and that we all needed Jesus to save us from a pattern of sin. Humility is key to forgiveness.
God is always a giver of hope. Paul who described himself as “the worst sinner”, found a new life as a follower of Christ and a clear conscience when he ran to God and repented.
Here’ are Paul’s words: “This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners"--and I am the worst of them all.” 1 Timothy 1:15
Q. How does Christ’s forgiveness of Paul “the worst of all sinners”, help you in your situation?
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3. Let your guilt make you run towards God. Not run away from Him.
The devil’s ploy is to make you run away from God. Remember how Adam hid after he sinned.
Jesus came, to break the yoke of sin and the yoke of condemnation:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and my load is not hard to carry.” Matthew 11: 28-30 NET
When feelings of condemnation linger, even after you’ve repented, refuse to entertain them.
“I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins. Isaiah 43:25 ESV
Q. How can you apply this lesson today?
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Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Give me the ability distinguish whether the guilt I’m feeling is conviction from your Holy Spirit or condemnation from the enemy of my soul.
I want to live a life that pleases You above all, not just to satisfy my flesh or simply to please other people’s expectations.
Give me the ability to know what is sinful in your eyes and give me the power to run towards You evertime I face conviction or condemnation, and find my freedom and wisdom in You in every situation.
In Jesus name, Amen.
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