NOT GUILTY!
“…because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:2, NIV)
I am not guilty and it is such a relief; it’s a freeing sensation that I cannot begin to explain! Perhaps, I don’t have to tell you because you have experienced it as well. I have done some thoughtless and hurtful things during my life, but my Father has forgiven me. He says I am no longer guilty of that sin.
Of course, I have had to pay the price (or experience the consequences) for what I did (loss of trust, shame and embarrassment) but He has not rejected me. He has not turned His back on me or made me feel guilty about my past. He has not preached guilt-producing sermons to try to motivate me. Only people do that! He just loves me and because of that love, that is motivation enough. I desire to please Him.
Why can’t humans be more like Him? When we make a mistake (sin), some are so willing to point their boney fingers at us and make comments. Their tongues wag as they gossip about us. “She’s a Christian and she did…...” Many won’t say anything to our faces, but social cues tell us they are either baffled or completely irritated by our scandalous behavior.
The mistake could be miniscule or life-changing but if we love God with all our hearts, the verdict is not guilty. He strips us out of the prison attire and clothes us with His robe of righteousness. He calms us down, cleans us up and puts His song in our hearts.
Gently He reminds us to pay no attention to our accusers, but instead to hold tightly to His hand, climb up on His lap and listen to His heart beat. There is such a soothing sound coming from a heart that is made of 100% love. For a moment in time, our world seems far away. But we can’t stay there in His embrace. We must come back and deal with reality. The good news is that each time with spend time with our Father, we bring a part of Him back with us.
Let the world say, “You’re still guilty as sin!”
I say, “I’m forgiven.”
God asks, “What sin?”
Father God, You are so loving! You heal our brokenness and You never reject or ignore us. Thank You for the forgiveness, grace and patience that You share with us daily. AMEN.