Clean Conscience

I have the same hope in God that these men have, that he will raise both the righteous and the unrighteous. Because of this, I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people.

Acts 24:15-16

In this passage in Acts, Paul is defending and professing his faith to the higher-ups in prison. Years into our marriage, I told my husband, Mark, that I used to like myself better before I started reading God’s Word regularly! My conscience did not seem to be pricked as much until I began to see God’s holiness and kindness, which seemed to put a spotlight on my unholy, unkind attitudes! Still, the more I see what He is like and what I am really like, the more I see how much I need His grace, love, and mercy that are offered to me, and the more I want to please Him.

I had no idea what wonderful adventures were in store for me when I started hearing God’s voice daily through the pages of His Word. Little did I know how often God would point out something He wanted to change in me, whether I liked it or not. I have settled this issue with God: His way is best! I want to do His will. Even though most days I feel like a slow learner, Jesus Christ is a loving, patient Teacher. I can “try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people” in freedom because of Christ.

Practically speaking, this means that we may need to go to a family member and say, “I am sorry. I was wrong! Will you forgive me?” It may mean that we need to phone a friend ASAP and apologize for letting her down. It may mean we need to take back a receipt that shows we were undercharged and pay what we owe. Whatever God’s Holy Spirit brings to our consciences, we want to address it in His power, by faith and not according to our feelings.

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any thoughts, attitudes, or actions that need His conscientious, conscious cleansing!