When you cross a moral, ethical, or legal line, you are considered 'guilty'. According to the Bible, everyone falls into that category ... For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
'Guilt' is by definition the factual state or condition of man ... not a fleeting 'feeling'.
The strong emotions associated with guilt are often used by the Holy Spirit to drive us to the foot of the cross. But the devil tries to use those stinging pangs to steer us away from Christ.
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. Corinthians 7:10
'Worldly sorrow' is filled with condemnation and hopelessness. It is a taskmaster that demands that a sinner 'earn' the Lord's favor. But 'Godly sorrow' brings us to the end of ourselves ... where guilt's burden can be lifted.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
Jesus is the answer to mankind's 'guilt problem'.
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
Remember ... you have an enemy.
Satan whispers to your soul that you don’t deserve full pardon until there is proof of 'sincerity' ... you must continue to wallow in shame to be seen as 'humble' in the eyes of God. This is a lie to keep you from serving the Lord with boldness.
Pride can also be the reason you cling to 'false guilt'. When you see it as 'your part' of the salvation experience, you insult the Lord Jesus Christ by implying that His death on the cross was not enough.
He paid a high price so you could walk in freedom ... Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)
Though you are 'guilty as charged' ... Jesus paid your sin debt and bore the shame on your behalf.
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