Overcoming Guiltنموونە
Introduction
Sometimes it is difficult for us to experience the freedom we can have when we let go of guilt and embrace the love and forgiveness of God. We struggle because we feel undeserving. The psalm writer David echoes this sentiment while acknowledging God’s mercy and willingness to pardon us.
Pray
God, help me read your Word with readiness to believe that you love me and are willing to extend mercy to me.
Read
The psalm writer declares God’s mercy and love extended to undeserving people.
Psalm 103:8-12
Reflect
God’s love is so high, wide, and deep that we cannot fully comprehend it. But if we can grasp that because of God’s love, he extends mercy to us and chooses not to remain angry with us, we might be better able to accept his forgiveness and walk away from our guilt. We can embrace the fact that “as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our sins from us” (verse 12 GNT).
Respond
Take a few moments to reflect on this idea: “The LORD is merciful and loving, slow to become angry and full of constant love” (verse 8 GNT). Now think about the guilt you feel and imagine yourself bringing it to God. Ask God to help you accept his love and mercy. Consider listening to Casting Crown’s song, “East to West.”
Scripture
About this Plan
Guilt, the shame and regret we feel when we do wrong, can be hard to shake. Sometimes we do all we know to do to feel better, to clear our conscience, yet the negative feelings and thoughts stay. When it seems that nothing is effective in ridding us of guilt, we can turn to God’s Word for instruction and assurance.
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