SOMETHING TO SHOOT FOR
ACTS 24:16
ACTS 24:16 NKJ
This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.
Paul, as he was defending himself before the Governor Felix, shared a great insight into his life. The idea of keeping a clear conscience before God and man. Paul said it was something he made a concerted effort to do.
Conscience is that inner voice that warns us when something is not right. It's that inner voice that convicts us when we've done wrong. So, as we stay tender in this area, our conscience can keep us on track and sleeping well at night.
APPLICATION
When I was little, it was hard for me to do wrong without my conscience really bugging me. My mother said I would often come and confess when I had disobeyed. As I got older, I ignored my conscience, and it did not bother me near as much. But when I came back to God, once again my conscience, that inner voice, became strong. And that's a good thing. When we are bothered by our conscience, we can respond by adjusting and asking for forgiveness.
When I am unkind or sharp with Joy, my conscience will not let me get away with it. I apologize is a phrase I have become accustomed to using with God and others because keeping a clear conscience is a great thing to shoot for.
PRAYER
Dear Father, I always strive to keep a clear conscience toward You and others. Help me stay tender so I can live in confidence with You.