February 19
"This is how we will know that we belong to the truth and how we will be reassured in his presence. Whenever our conscience condemns us, we will be reassured that God is greater than our conscience and knows everything. Dear friends, if our conscience doesn't condemn us, we can boldly look to God and receive from him anything we ask. We receive it because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him." - 1 John 3:19-22 (GW)
Conscience is a powerful reality. We have all had episodes of having what is called "A guilty conscience". Yet we have also encountered those who seem to have no conscience at all. This is increasingly common in a society that has substituted the slogan "Anything goes" for the old fashioned virtues of discipline, prayer, and moral guidance. Yet sharp and active consciences are vital if we are ever to change the injustices around us or return our society and culture to a healthier basis. Martin Luther King once said: "On some positions, Cowardice asks the question, 'Is it safe?' Expediency asks the question 'Is it politic?' And Vanity comes along and asks the question 'Is it popular?' But Conscience asks the question 'Is it right?' The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of convenience, but where they stand in moments of challenge, moments of great crisis and controversy."
How do we escape the gnawing accusations of our consciences? Not by ignoring it or rationalizing our behavior but by setting our heart on God's love. Whether we feel guilty because of false guilt or real guilt, we need to remind ourselves that God knows our motives as well as our actions. His voice of assurance is stronger than the accusing voice of our conscience. If we are in Christ and have asked for forgiveness, he will not condemn us. (Rom.8:10) So if you are living for the Lord but feeling you are unworthy or not good enough, remember that God Almighty is greater than your conscience. If your conscience is clear, you can come to God without fear, confident your requests will be heard. John reaffirms Jesus' promise that whatever we ask for will be given to us! Why? Because you are God's precious beloved child!
Prayer: Father God, Forgive me & cleanse me of guilt. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: Conscience is God's Accounting book.
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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