Tag: blatant sins

Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, “Brothers, I have lived my life before God in all good conscience to this day.” (Acts 23:1)

I wish I were able to say what Paul said.

Not with an arrogant or self-righteous attitude, of course.

The truth is, we can be acting in all good conscience and still do some pretty horrific things. Paul knew that as well as anyone. (1 Timothy 1:13-14)

But I never want to violate my conscience, willfully doing what I know is wrong.

And when I realize my sin, I want a soft heart like Paul’s that quickly repents. (Acts 23:5)

So my heart’s prayer is this:

Who perceives his unintentional sins?
Cleanse me from my hidden faults.

Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins;
do not let them rule me.
Then I will be blameless
and cleansed from blatant rebellion.

May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:12-14)