Thursday, September 6, 2012 -- A Blameless Conscience (4)

As with anything new we are seeking to establish in our lives, we need to recognize that there is a learning curve in distinguishing between the Holy Spirit’s voice and our own old way of thinking.  That is why spiritual counselors and long time companions of God need to be consulted when we are early in this process of renewing our conscience.  Our will and thoughts must be repeatedly surrendered to God’s truth in order to accomplish this.

The Bible puts it this way:  “We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV)

 That means we’ll need to give up our own understanding of life, acknowledge God’s way of living as right, and allow Him to direct us in the path He has chosen for us. Then, and only then, can our conscience be a safe and helpful guide to our decisions.

Loving God, I want to maintain a blameless conscience before you.  I surrender my will and my life into your care again tonight.  Transform me, God, into a new person by changing the way I think.  Help me to take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.  Help me to act always from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. Forgive me for the many times I've failed in these areas.  I turn away from my own independent thinking.  I turn to Christ and His principles for life.  Help me, Holy Spirit, especially when my desires run counter to what I know to be right in God's eyes.  Give me strength and courage to live this commitment to a new way of thinking and acting. I receive your power and your blessing.  In Jesus' name.  Amen