124 Christian Atheist: I Believe in God but Can't Get Past My Past

Every one of us knows what it’s like to carry around a “sack of shame” – guilt over what we’ve done in the past.

What do you do with the contents of that sack? Our “can-do” culture has some suggestions:

Man’s Solution

1.     Talk it out.

But while it can help to talk to someone about your struggle, that counselor cannot offer absolution.

2.     Brush it off.

But being reminded that others have their own bags of regret doesn’t help you carry yours.

3.     Explain it away.

Passing the blame in a kind of reverse relay race won’t get rid of the weight of guilt for the foolish choices we made.

4.     Work it off.

This is the religious solution. Burn a candle. Say a prayer. Do 2 good deeds for every bad one. Sounds logical, but who sets the quota? And why doesn’t peace come after all the effort?

God’s Solution begins with Jesus’ words: “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Mt. 11:28)

God’s Solution:

1.     Admit the sinfulness of your actions. (Psalm 32:5)

2.     Ask for the forgiveness that is freely offered. (1 John 1:9)

3.     Accept the offer of total cleansing. (Psalm 103:12)

4.     Affirm the truth of God’s promises when feelings of guilt and shame return. (Romans 8:1)

Text: Mt. 11:38; Psalm 32

Originally recorded on January 20, 2013, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN.

This series is based on the book “The Christian Atheist” by Craig Groeschel.