Grace
Abundant Grace
At some point in our Christian walk, each of us sins against God. When it happens, you may find yourself thinking: "I really have blown it this time." And under the weight of God's convicting hand, it may feel as though you have. However, hiding under a shadow of guilt and shame is not where God wants you to spend your Christian life. Rather, He wants you to live in the light of His forgiveness and love. Begin this study by listing the times you feel you have hurt your relationship with God. Ask yourself what stands out the most about these situations, then read 1 Peter 1:13-16, Romans 8:1.
By grace God saves you. It also is the nature of His grace to forgive every sin you have or will commit. The guilt that comes whenever you go against His will or Word is meant to be a pathfinder which helps you discern where you have gone wrong and how to correct the problem. Read Hebrews 7:25.
God's grace is available to you for all you are facing. There is no temptation that is stronger than the love of God. Regardless of how you feel, God wants you to know He has His best in mind for your life—beginning today.
False guilt is a factor that can hinder your spiritual growth. This has nothing to do with God's loving conviction. False guilt arises from feelings that are askew and not focused on Christ's forgiveness and love. The best way to avoid false guilt is to remember that once you have asked God to forgive you, the issue is settled. You are forgiven. His forgiveness is not conditional. It is not based on present or future performance. He loves you right now just the way you are. And it is His love that changes you and helps you grow into a person of holiness and righteousness.
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