Guilt is a topic which quickly claims our attention because of the feelings of shame with which we struggle. When the subject is addressed we listen intently in hopes someone can somehow explain why we feel we ought not to be the way we are. What is this inner urging which keeps us constantly dissatisfied with our behavior? Where does the voice come from that sometimes shouts, "Shame, shame?" Is there no relief from the annoying pain of who we are? The answer is yes. Biblical faith and salvation history focus upon the fact that we do not have to stay the way we are. The whole concept of God's atonement is that we lay our sins on Jesus. In doing so we do not become sinless, but we are forgiven. Our guilt is resolved in confession and faith.

The spiritual meaning of our guilt is in its ability to monitor any behavior that does not conform to our highest code of conduct in Christ. Hopefully the church, the scriptures and family training have given us a sensitivity to the mind of Christ. If permitted, the Holy Spirit will give us a Godly disposition in the way we think and act. When we quench the Spirit and violate the will of God there is a holy discomfort. The anticipation of pain caused by our transgression is a deterrent to reckless living. Our conscience, if properly nurtured, can be our most helpful companion in our attempt to walk "the straight and narrow way."

Guilt can be good for us if it motivates us to correct our mistakes and improve our relationships. If it leads us to repentance and restoration then we have benefited from whatever pain it may have produced. Guilt, however, can become a hindrance to our happiness when there are no channels of confession through which it may flow from our burdened souls. Morbid guilt is a preoccupation with our sin rather than a humble appeal for pardoning grace. It can produce a kind of grief for the sins we are too weak to avoid. Guilt can drag us to the pit of despair until we turn our eyes toward Jesus. Our redeeming hope is in the fact that Jesus died on the cross for our sins with a reminder that He still prays, "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do."