MAX ON LIFE

13. I know God has forgiven me for my past sins, but it's hard for me to forgive myself. I've terminated two pregnancies that happened out of wedlock. I used drugs for years and really messed up my life. God has redeemed me, but I still feel so ashamed for my actions.

Welcome to the Court of Shame. Look around. See anyone you know? Recognize that judge in the long black robe? It's you. In fact, the prosecutor looks pretty familiar. You again, this time wearing a nice Italian suit. Glance over to the jury. Yep. Twelve of you all giving you the evil eye and saying, "Guilty".

When it comes to shame, we are our harshest judges.

Sometimes it's public.

Always it's painful.

After hearing the heart of the adulterous woman, Jesus declared, "I also don't judge you guilty. You may go now, but don't sin anymore" (John 8:11). If Jesus judged her and found her not guilty, what do you think he says about you?

At times like this, you must ask yourself a question: who makes a better judge - you or Jesus?

We make poor judges. Marred by hurt and humiliation, we don't see the situation clearly. We listen too much to the voices that got us into this mess. The abuser still abuses our self-esteem. We allow the molester to still molest our soul. Our judgments are limited.

Jesus knows the situation inside and out. He sees from every perspective and feels all the pain. He knows when lines were crossed and when motives were just. Jesus is the best judge.

So when he says, "I don't judge you guilty", that verdict is based not on a whim but on a careful examination of all the hearts, all the guilt, and all the genuine repentance.

Jesus says he no longer holds any wrong against you.

So if Jesus declares you not guilty, then who keeps whispering guilt in your ears?

Who do you think?

By: Max Lucado