Overcoming GuiltSample

Introduction

No one in their right mind is exempt from feeling guilt when they’ve done wrong. What differs for each of us is how we handle it. God’s Word points to what we can do to overcome guilt in a healthy, meaningful way. According to the psalm writer David, a beginning step in the right direction is confessing or owning up to our wrongdoing.

Pray

God, my heart is heavy with guilt. I struggle to find peace and happiness. As I read Scripture today, help me discern your presence and know that you are ready to help me.

Read

In today’s reading, the psalmist David presents a ‘before and after’ picture on his handling of guilt.

Psalm 32:1-5

Reflect

David reflects on the weight of guilt for the wrongs we have done versus the happiness and relief that results from being forgiven of wrongdoing. Pretending that we have done no wrong instead of honestly confessing our misdeeds leaves us feeling unsettled, tormented, lacking peace. Unconfessed sin left David “crying all day long” and his “strength was completely drained” (verses 3-4 GNT). Happiness and peace came only after he acknowledged his misdeeds.

Respond

Where are you in this ‘before and after’ picture? If you have not yet acknowledged your wrongdoing, it is important to start there. If you have, but you feel your confession was not heard or received, pause now and pray. Ask God to help you lay down all the weight of guilt and receive forgiveness. If the offense was directed at an individual and you can talk with him/her, ask God for confidence to seek forgiveness from that person.

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