No Condemnation
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:1
The feelings of guilt, shame, and condemnation drive many to a state of depression and a sense of hopelessness. The visions of their sinful lives are played repeatedly in their minds like a horror movie, giving them no peace. It does not help that the devil stands ready to accuse them both day and night.
How can one overcome such despair and doubt? Some have turned to illegal and prescription drugs to silence the pain. Others resort to more sinful and shameful acts because of their hopelessness. Is there any remedy for such a sad state?
The Bible portrays the God of heaven as loving and willing to forgive. He gave His best so that we may have eternal life. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. The reason that those of us that have been overcome with feelings of condemnation for our sins can be hopeful is because the Lord is on our side when we surrender our lives to Him. “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:31, 32.
You may ask, how we are to know that we need help in the first place. “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13. The Lord Himself reveals to us our need and then as we respond to Him, He supplies it. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19.
Isn’t it wonderful that we can serve a God whose desire for us is that we be saved? With the Lord on our side, who can condemn us (Romans 8:34)? Submit to God, turn from sin and He will fight your battles (James 4:7); even the battles of past sins. “For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.” I John 3:20
