Condemnation verses Conviction
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1
How do we feel when trying to walk with a Godly heart of love and kindness, then something happens that triggers our emotions and we revert to an old habit and display anger. Are we later condemning ourselves for once again yielding to our old habit instead of displaying Christ-like behavior? According to Romans 1 we are not to condemn ourselves, but based on our feelings what are we suppose to do?
Our feelings resulting from our non Christ-like behavior is caused by conviction from the Holy Spirit. Let’s examine conviction and understand its purpose. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment (John 16:8) The Holy Spirit convicts us when we start thinking, speaking, or doing something that is not pleasing to God, with the purpose to help us overcome the behavior. Without conviction how can we grow spiritual and become more Christ-like? Conviction instills in us the motivation to overcome any sinful habits. It makes us spiritual warriors and strong in the spiritual fight, and this pleases the Lord. If we seek his help we can overcome any sinful behavior through his power.
As we continue to grow spiritually our conscious becomes very sensitive to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. This is good because it helps us to capture our thought before we speak angry words and actions. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5) Capturing every thought requires practice, self discipline, and prayer. My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, (James 1:19). When we stop and wait before we speak, we can gain control of our emotion and respond in Godly wisdom.
Conviction helps us to grow spiritually while condemnation will move us away from God. If we condemn ourselves we are tearing ourselves down and loosing the ability to overcome. For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. (1 John 5:4) Those born of God have the Holy Spirit, who convicts us of any sinful thoughts and enables us to overcome the world.
Today be sensitive to your conscious because it will reveal the Holy Spirit’s conviction. Consider conviction to be the gatekeeper that keeps you from entering Satan’s world of sin. Let conviction enable you to be free in Christ and to overcome the world. When temptations occur today, immediately be still, gain control, and respond with Godly wisdom.
Prayer: Lord, speak to me through the Holy Spirit when my thoughts become displeasing to you. Let the Holy Spirit keep me in your divine will and walking in your love and wisdom. Thank you for your Spirit who keeps me in your divine family. In Jesus name, Amen