Counsel #10 — “I Don’t Feel Particularly Sinful…”

Picture: Counsel #10 — “I Don’T Feel Particularly Sinful…”CSL 100.1

Blinded to its destructive power, our natural inclination is to embrace sin. We often view ourselves through rose-colored glasses, oblivious to the depths of our sinful nature.^{[114]Isaiah 64:6} Genuine sorrow for sin—true repentance—is a gift bestowed by God, requiring fervent prayer. Scripture clarifies that ceasing to sin is the ultimate expression of repentance.^{[115]Acts 26:20 and 2 Corinthians 7:10} Yet, human effort alone cannot break the chains of sin. While education, good manners, and willpower can refine our behavior, they cannot fundamentally transform our sinful desires. Only a supernatural intervention, a new life breathed into our souls by the Holy Spirit, can awaken us to our desperate need for Christ. This divine power alone can eradicate the self-sufficiency that hinders our pursuit of holiness, drawing us into a life-transforming relationship with God.^{[116]https://youtu.be/4H69c2nvKa4?si=TSFHNwbbXyYcQdZ7&t=325}  CSL 100.2

“Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I'm about; See for yourself whether I've done anything wrong - then guide me on the road to eternal life.” Psalms 139:23, 24 MSGCSL 100.3

“Deep love for Jesus cannot live in our hearts if we do not know we are sinful. If we are changed by the grace of Christ, we will admire the Saviour’s holy character. If we do not see that we are sinful, this shows that we have never seen the beauty and perfection of Christ.” Ellen White in Steps to Jesus, p. 63CSL 100.4

Reflect: How can you cultivate a greater sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's conviction about sin?CSL 100.5