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by Dennis Wheeler
During my lifetime I have met many Christians who live their lives viewing God's judgment and condemnation, instead of living with God's love and approval. In fact, I used to live that way...and let me tell you - it ain't no fun!!
You see, when we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior - - our sins are totally forgiven, God's justice has been satisfied, and we are no longer condemned! Romans 8:1 underscores this..."So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. For the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you through Christ Jesus..." (NLT)
Yet many still continue to carry around that feeling of condemnation. Why?
It could be from your upbringing. Many folks grow up with criticism and rejection, experiencing love infrequently. As a result, they tend to be negative about themselves and forget that through God's love they are a brand new creation.
It could be from unforgiveness. If someone has willfully sinned against God causing them to feel unworthy to accept His forgiveness...so they condem themselves. Yet throughout the Scriptures we see over and over again God's awesome love being exteneded to His prodigal children.
It could be criticism from others. When we accept someones critical, negative judgment of us - we are ignoring the value that God places on us.
It could be deception that causes us to feel condemned. One of satan's favorite tactics is to make a Christian feel unforgiven. When we believe this lie - we are rejecting God's loving sacrifice of His Son who died for ALL of our sins.
The cure for condemnation is acceptance of God's unconditional love. Romans 5:8 says..."God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners." (NLT)
Accept His love and live your life today in freedom - not condemnation!
He serves as the Senior Pastor with southwest Virginia church... a loving church family in Abingdon.
He and his wife Sharon have been married for over 27 years and are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters, one son-in-law, and two precious grandchildren, the second arrived arrived on the scene in September 2004!!
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