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Condemnation. My unwelcomed traveling companion for so many years of my life.

Growing up in a dysfunctional environment with little self-esteem and even less self-confidence, I struggled to fit in and became a people-pleaser. But it never worked. When I messed up and endured the wrath of those I had irritated and displeased, guilt crept in and opened the door for its companion—condemnation.

Others condemned me, so why not condemn myself? So, I did.

Romans 8:1-2 addresses condemnation. It’s a terrible way to live. The Message calls it living under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. But thank God there is a way out. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air. God, in His mercy and grace, has set us free. All we must do is accept His gift.

I love the way the Passion translation puts it: So now the case is closed. There remains no accusing voice of condemnation against those who are joined in life-union with Jesus, the Anointed One.

In the face of her accusers, Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, neither do I condemn you. He says the same to us today. When we confess our sin, He forgives and never holds it against us. Neither should we hold it against ourselves.

If you are a child of God, you have been set free from condemnation. Case closed!

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)