by Tricia Draper

John 3:17 NIV, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”

One lie that Satan has confused the world with, is that condemnation comes from God. God loves us and will convict people of their wrongdoing, but He does not put any kind of condemnation on anyone. If someone feels guilty for their actions, they are experiencing conviction. If, however, they feel ashamed and unloved, that is all coming from the enemy. He is the father of lies, and he will try everything possible to make us feel poorly about ourselves. God loves us and wants to teach us lessons by everyday experiences, but Satan wants to make us feel less than, and unworthy.

Even the strongest Christians fall into this trap at times. We can take a wrong turn, and the enemy loves to jump in and shower us with condemnation. “You should know better; you are a Christian. God doesn’t love you anymore after that mistake.” His lies go on and on. We need to remember that God always wants to bring us up and not tear us down.

Father, I thank You for all the times You have convicted me of my wrongdoings. I am so grateful that You do not hold my sins against me when I ask for forgiveness. Sometimes I feel like Satan is trying to make me feel like a horrible person. When I really stop and listen, I can tell the difference between Your loving conviction and his lying condemnation. I love You so much! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Tricia loves God with all her heart. She enjoys sharing the life lessons she has learned. Her ministry, The Messengers Ministry, teaches these lessons.