Hebrews 4:12- For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Under Christ's blood, I am declared innocent of all sin- past, present and future, so feelings of guilt are not from God. However, the Holy Spirit can and will convict me of areas of sin in my life. Whether it is during my prayer time, through a scripture or sermon, or by the example of a fellow Christian's life, spiritual conviction is the way God keeps me on track in my life.
This conviction is seldom what I want to "hear" from God, yet without it, I would continue down nonproductive and destructive paths. I think that is why at times in my life, I have avoided Bible study, prayer and church attendance. When I am engaged in those things, the conviction of the Holy Spirit is much clearer and harder to ignore.
I have also learned time and again, that when I am close to God, responsive to the Holy Spirit's leading and conviction, decisions I make are wiser, sleep is deeper and contentment is more a constant companion.
It is interesting that most people get to a dentist as soon as possible when they have a toothache. Even though they know their time in the chair might cause some temporary pain, after the procedure long-term relief awaits. Yet in things spiritual, many (including me) try to avoid that temporary discomfort/pain of conviction by avoiding those activities that allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us in that still small voice.
Dear God, I invite and plead with You to shine Your light of conviction onto any areas of my life that are out of alignment with Your will for my life. I than ask for the wisdom and strength to make the changes You require of me.
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