Conscience

Conscience

How does my conscience really work? What is the danger of ignoring it?

God’s Response

Clearly we are being punished because of what we did to Joseph. . . . That’s why we’re in this trouble. Genesis 42:21

For the truth about God is known to them instinctively. God has put this knowledge in their hearts. Romans 1:19

Cling tightly to your faith in Christ, and always keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. 1 Timothy 1:19

Joseph’s brothers felt guilty because of their earlier mistreatment of him. Your conscience is a gift from God, an instinct he has placed inside you that makes you aware of your sins and gives you an appropriate sense of guilt and shame. It then calls you to act by righting the wrong and receiving forgiveness from God and others. Ignoring your conscience dulls it and allows sin’s consequences to grow unchecked without your feeling bad about it. This is like ignoring warning lights at a railroad crossing when a freight train is barreling down on you.

God’s Challenge

My conscience is clear, but that isn’t what matters. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide. 1 Corinthians 4:4