I once knew an elderly gentleman who loved to say, “I don’t have any trouble sleeping because I go to bed with a clear conscience.” I suppose his nightly Benadryl didn’t hurt any, but I got his point. And having watched his lifestyle, I knew why he slept well.
As Paul defended his Christianity before a Roman governor, he said, “Because of this, I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people” (Acts 24:16 NLT).
The conscience is a wonderfully designed part of our human makeup through which God’s Spirit works to let us know when we’re on the wrong path. I’ve not always lived with a clear conscience, but I’m getting better at it as I get older and learn how to let Christ live through me. As peer pressure wanes and spiritual maturity grows, my conscience doesn’t bother me nearly as much as it once did.
Understanding forgiveness is a must for a clear conscience. When I trusted Christ, he canceled my sin debt. But since I’m not perfect, I also receive his daily forgiveness. Knowing all my sins are forgiven prevents me from fearing his judgment and condemnation and also from trying to pay him back with good works.
Practicing right living also keeps my conscience clear. When I’m not living by God’s code of conduct, he’ll worry me until I shape up or just don’t care anymore. The choice is mine.
I must also trust God to help me distinguish between false and true guilt. Both will trouble my conscience, but only one comes from God and needs addressing.
If God has forgiven your sins, you can live with a clear conscience. You’re no longer under condemnation. Regardless of what Satan might try to whisper in your ear, let God’s truth drown out his insinuations.
Prayer: Thank You merciful Father for forgiving all our sins through the death of Your precious Son. Enable us to live and serve You with a clear conscience.
Living ith a Clear Conscience
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