the kindness of conviction

“Because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction.”  1 Thessalonians 1:5

Conviction: a formal declaration that someone is guilty, the quality of showing that one is firmly convinced of what one believes or says.

 Guilt: the fact of having committed an offense, a feeling of having done something wrong

 Shame: painful feeling of humiliation or disgrace, a feeling of loss of respect or esteem, a feeling of inadequacy or dishonor, a perception that someone or something has no value or worth

 Condemnation: expression of complete disapproval of someone, typically in public, officially declared to be unfit for use

My child,

You are bombarded with confusion from your culture, especially when it comes to the difference between conviction and condemnation. Many people don’t grasp the idea that my conviction when you are guilty of an offense is a healthy part of relationship with me.

Once someone has come into relationship with me through Christ, there is no condemnation. I simply offer forgiveness as you agree with me about your sin. Shame and condemnation are not productive and attack the person while screeching he or she is unfit. Conviction, on the other hand, is productive and moves people toward the truth and greater life in me.

Think about your grandson. Those who love him want to move him toward the truth about what is healthy, right, and good. You would not allow him to wander off the edge of a cliff because he wanted to or did not know better. You would not be shaming him if you took action to show him that behavior is wrong - not what is best for him. It would not be controlling, legalistic and shaming for you to tell him jumping off the cliff was not good behavior.

I know how utterly destructive sin is. I want so much more for my children. I want you to enjoy the life I created for you in all its glory. When you choose poorly, you miss out.

 My priority is to establish a forever connection with those I created and love. I hate anything that gets in the way. I work to convict (convince you of the truth) about those things. I don’t do it because I want to ruin your quality of life. I AM LIFE! I want to free you to enjoy me and the abundant life for which you were created.

I love you,

Abba

My Abba,

When a building is condemned, I realize it doesn't just mean it is officially declared "unfit for use." It means that building, either, can't be restored or isn't worth it. It needs to be torn down, leveled, destroyed.

 I am so grateful you don’t see me that way. Your endless, perfect grace can always bring restoration in my heart, mind and life. Thank you that you don't condemn me. Instead, you always love me unconditionally, and invest lavishly in the astounding transformation of my soul.

You offered me an eternal, vital connection with you through Jesus Christ. Because of that, I can rest assured I am not worthless, condemned, or declared unfit. I can be shame-free, not because I am sin-free, but because you gave me Jesus's perfect, infinite righteousness when I trusted him as my Savior.

 Shame tells me, “You are bad, unfit, dirty! Sit in your pain. You deserve to suffer.” Conviction says, “Your attitude or action was wrong. Go to God, admit it, receive his forgiveness, and experience the freedom only he can give! Then you can enjoy his best for you!”

 Thank you for giving me a greater ability to discern between the voices of shame and conviction. Please rescue me from the accuser whenever he attempts to bury me in condemnation. And please convict me when I am actually guilty of an offense, so I may come to you for forgiveness, freedom and life.

I love you,

Mollie

photo credit: NejroN