Yesterday, my oldest daughter called and started the conversation with the words, "Dad, I'm okay." She continued by telling me what intersection she was at and what had just taken place. She was sitting in the turning lane, when the van in front of her backed up and bumped her. The van then pulled away as though he thought about leaving the scene. Down the street, he changed his mind and pulled over. She said, "Dad, I called the police and I'm not moving. I want them to see exactly what happened."
As I arrived at the scene, the police officer was in his car and working on his report. I approached Courtney to find her sitting in her car, doing her homework, and smiling. Some of her first words were, "Dad, it felt so good to be able to call and tell you it wasn't my fault." I had to laugh... she had been in an accident, she was okay, and she was smiling. Knowing her conscience was clear brought her joy in the midst of a problem.
On the other hand, the young man who hit her drove away, then claimed she ran into him. (Sure, everyone drives away when they get rear-ended.) He was crying, shaking, and with good cause. He already had a suspended license, he just bumped someone, and now he is carrying the weight of lying.
The whole scenario really gives a GREAT illustration of the joy that comes with a clear conscience and the grief that accompanies a guilty one. Courtney didn't mind answering any question the officer asked; because she had perfect peace... she knew she wasn't hiding anything... her conscience was clear!
Isn't the same true in our lives? The spouse who is having an affair doesn't want anyone asking him where he's been or why he's coming home late. The employee who is embezzling money doesn't want to be audited. The kid hiding drugs doesn't want anyone searching his room or car. Aachan didn't want anyone searching his tent. David didn't want anyone walking in while Bathsheba was visiting. A guilty conscience will drive you crazy!
On the other hand, a clear conscience brings great peace. Why not clear yours today? Reconcile with those you offended. Forgive those you're bitter against. Pay the debts you owe. Confess the secret sins you only "think" you're hiding from God. There is nothing better than knowing you have a clear conscience before your heavenly Father. Clear yours today!
No comments:
Post a Comment