Daily Reflections, Thursday, January 3, 2008

Today's Scripture: Psalm 51:2-4

A youth in our church was caught shoplifting. We caught him with a gun, a package from the store, and if that wasn’t enough, his misdeed was recorded live on a surveillance tape. In spite of all the evidence against him, however, the young man denied he was guilty of any wrongdoing. Rather than confessing his criminal act, he discounted the evidence and chose not to believe it.

Guilt is like a dashboard warning light. You can either stop your car and deal with the problem, or break out the light. Are you “breaking out the light,” though you’re well aware of “engine trouble” in your life? Are you quick to blame others rather than accept responsibility for your sin? My friend, you’re living dangerously. Those who live in denial do so to their own peril. The burden of guilt will rob you of the very life, joy, and peace you wish to preserve through your denial.

Why does it have to be so? This is God’s natural law. The only escape from the guilt of sin is confession. Reformers Unanimous, a faith-based addictions recovery program, has incorporated as one of its key principles for recovery the following: “God balances guilt with blame. When we accept the blame for our actions, God eliminates the guilt.”

Lay down your burden of guilt today. Confess your sin to God and experience His peace!

Today's Quote:  You never lose the love of God. Guilt is the warning that temporarily you are out of touch. —Jack Dominian