Is Guilt Holding You Back From Following God?

Many believers struggle with guilt that keeps them stuck in the past and uncertain about what God thinks of them. In this opening message from the How to Live in Victory series, Pastor Chris walks through Romans 8:1-4 to show how Christ removes condemnation, breaks sin’s power, and leads believers into a Spirit-shaped life.

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18607101

Key Points:

1. Stand on the foundation that lifts you above condemnation (v. 1)
   Romans 8:1 declares a settled verdict for those in Christ. This freedom flows out of the struggle of Romans 7 and assures believers that guilt no longer defines their standing before God.
2. Live in freedom from the power of sin (vv. 2-3)
   Through Christ, the law of the Spirit sets believers free from the law of sin and death. What the law could not do, God accomplished by sending His Son, breaking sin’s authority and shame.
3. Follow the Spirit into a sanctified life (v. 4)
   Freedom from condemnation is not an excuse to drift, but an invitation to walk according to the Spirit. God’s purpose is a transformed life shaped from the inside out.

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
Pastor Chris uses the image of a fallen tree crushing a cabin to illustrate how guilt feels different when a mess is our own fault, and how grace still restores. He also shares a humorous story about a guilty dog hiding under the table to show how shame causes believers to pull away from God.

Notable Quotes:
“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
“Grace gives us permission to move forward.”
“Freedom from guilt opens the door to a Spirit-led life.”

Actionable Takeaways:

Reflect on what guilt continues to surface in your heart
Stop hiding and bring sin honestly before God
Trust Christ’s finished work instead of self-accusation
Take a step forward in faith where shame has held you back

Scripture References:
Romans 8:1-4
Romans 7:24-25
Romans 5:1
John 5:24
John 3:16-18
Colossians 2:14-15
Galatians 5:16

Keywords: Romans 8, living free from guilt, no condemnation, grace, Christian victory, Holy Spirit, sanctified life.

Challenge:
This week, accept Christ’s verdict over your life and intentionally walk forward in freedom by following the Spirit instead of living under guilt.

26.0201de Living Free From Guilt

The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Visit the well.faith media page and find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [e-mail]