Freedom From Guilt

“God, Who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, Who…was raised to secure our justification (our acquittal), [making our account balance and absolving us from all guilt before God].”—Romans 4:24–25 AMPC

After Adam and Eve sinned, they realized that their relationship with God had changed. They were no longer living in harmony with Him. When He approached, they did not welcome His presence. Instead, they “hid themselves” (Genesis 3:8). There was a painful separation, a kind of wall between them and God.

This was the first human experience of guilt. Since that day, guilt has become a common condition for all of us.

Many factors can trigger guilt. We might have disobeyed God or said or done things that violated His Word. This kind of guilt can haunt our minds and hearts. Even Christians can find it difficult to overcome guilt.

God provided a way for us to overcome these guilty feelings. Paul wrote that Jesus “was betrayed and put to death because of our misdeeds” (Romans 4:25). So because of His death and resurrection, we can be forgiven and escape the hold guilt has on our hearts and minds.

The Bible promises, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NKJV). If we acknowledge our sins, we can be free and forgiven!

Are you carrying any guilt or other burdens resulting from sin in your life? Confess any sins to God, and then accept His forgiveness. Jesus died and rose again, so you could be free and live in harmony with God.

Reflection Question:Compose a prayer of confession and repentance.