Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he
will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
I read of a New Jersey artist who capitalized on people's
needless guilt by selling them "guilt kits." Each kit contained ten
disposable brown paper bags and a set of instructions which said, "Place bag
securely over your mouth, take a deep breath and blow the guilt out. Dispose of
bag immediately." Amazingly, about 2,500 kits sold at $2.50 each! The
artist was in tune with just how much guilt people seem to carry around with
them.
Of course, guilt serves its purpose, and I understand the
use of the kit as a symbol of ridding ourselves of unnecessary, or destructive
guilt. But guilt might better be handled at its root.
To live free from needless guilt, try these steps:
1. If a mistake was made, resolve never to repeat that
mistake. The whole function of guilt is to change behavior.
2. Seek forgiveness from any others who were affected, if
possible.
3. Use your spiritual resources. There is great power in
knowing that, in an ultimate sense, you are forgiven.
4. Forgive yourself. No purpose is served in continuing
to whip yourself over past events you can do nothing else about.
If you follow these steps, you can rid your life of
unnecessary guilt. I believe that you will find that you are happier and
healthier.
Dear Lord, We pray that we would turn all our stress over
to You. Help us take the steps today to let
You take complete control. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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