I was talking with a friend recently about needing to make choices/decisions about my children. We have had some difficult ones to make with one of my children and I was telling her that if I made “decision x” although it might be better in the long run, I would still have to deal with the severe guilt of making that decision, feeling like I hadn’t done enough, or if we had only tried something else.
Her reply took me by surprise and it’s something I’ve been mulling over. She said, “Leave the guilt for sin.” She further explained that that is the only time we should feel guilty.
I’ve been sitting here pondering this idea that sin is the only reason we should allow ourselves to feel guilt. I feel guilty in SO many areas of my life. Guilt because I wasn’t able to do something. Guilt because I wasn’t there for someone. Guilt because I ate the last piece of candy. Guilt because I made a decision that based on the information I had at the time I thought best, but then later found out it wasn’t. Guilt because I haven’t gotten something done. I could go on and on and on with this list. I’m guessing you could too.
Guilt seems to be hardwired into our brains. But that isn’t something God wants for us, to go round and round in our heads blaming ourselves for things that don’t need blame, that doesn’t need guilt. He wants us to have joy. All this guilt that isn’t for sin is not from him.
Such wise words from my friend. Such a powerful thought! This idea of guilt only being for sin could change my entire life if I let it. Think of all the mental strength it would free up! Think how freeing that would be! Think of how much happier you would be if you saved the guilt for sin.
I’m perfectly imperfect in this area of my life. I’m going to keep on trying, however, because I know it’s what God wants for my life. With his help, I can instead experience joy and peace in my heart. What a change that will be.
Great advice! I tend to feel guilty even about things that I have no control over. I find myself apologizing over and over again, then think to myself “Stop that!”
Thanks for reading. This idea has really been helping me.
Oh it’s so hard not to feel guilty and like you say it seems to be hardwired into our brains. I do try really hard not to feel guilty as I can’t do everything and be everywhere. I wouldn’t worry too much if you do take the last chocolate….someone has too! Thanks for linking up at #fortheloveofBLOG. Claire x
Thanks for reading.
I lOVE this!! There are so many things that I feel guilty of at times and it is just silly. They were not wrong/bad things, just life. Thank you so much for this post!
Thanks for linking up @LiveLifeWell!!
Blessings,
Amy
Thanks for reading!
Your friend is very wise and spot on. Thanks for reminding us that we need to not feel guilt ridden over these things. Happy Mothers Day to you – we are neighbors at #LiveLifeWell today
PS.. if you are looking for another place to link to on Thursday’s I would love if you would consider joining my linkup #TuneInThursday – it opens Thursday 3am PST and runs through Sunday night. you can find it at debbiekitterman.com/blog (Please feel free to delete the link if you think it inappropriate).
Thanks for letting me know about your link up. I’m always looking for new places to link up at!
Leave the guilt for sin! Love that so much!
It has been life changing for me.
Wow this is just what I needed to hear today- the day I have to take my 13 y/o to court. Thanks for the inspiration!
I’m so glad it helped someone. It really was pivotal for me when my friend said that to me.