Guilt

Dictionary.com defines guilt as, “having a sense of shame.” Dave hit another home run with today’s message, as I have talked to too many Christ followers who are living in guilt. I was one, until I learned the Biblical definition of “guilt”...not accepting God’s forgiveness. As a Christian, when I thought about the fact that my guilt put a wedge between God and me because I didn’t fully accept His forgiveness...I had to repent.

Most Christ followers that I know hold on to guilt, and my plea to you is...let it go...give it to God. You’re saying about now, “Leah, it’s not that easy. I really hurt________. I blew apart my marriage."   I know it’s not that easy, so here are a few ways to overcome your guilt:

1. Acknowledge to God that you know Christ has forgiven all your sins, especially the ones you haven’t forgiven yourself for.
2. Admit to God that your feelings of guilt come from yourself and not from Him.
3. Confess your specific guilt to God, “God, I’m holding on to guilt over participating in gossip, which hurt my friend.”
4. When feelings of guilt return, acknowledge to God that you have accepted his forgiveness, then confess your guilty feelings, turning your burden immediately over to him.
5. Give yourself a break, understanding that knowing the truth doesn’t just make your guilty feelings go away. It takes practice, practice, practice. God has patience and grace for your practice.

I’m passionate about you releasing your guilt. It put a wedge between God and me for too long. Remember what Dave said today, “You are un-condemned!”

let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, because we have been made free from a guilty conscience, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:22