Paul wrote: ‘My conscience testifies with me [enlightened and prompted] by the Holy Spirit.’ When the Holy Spirit speaks to your conscience, two things happen. 1) He illuminates your heart with the truth. 2) He prompts you about what to do, because some things might be ‘right’ for others but ‘wrong’ for you. God has a particular plan for each of us and He doesn’t want us to be negatively influenced or to stray away from His path, so it’s important to follow His guidance. Here are some Scriptures to think about when it comes to keeping our consciences clear: ‘I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people’ (Acts 24:16 NLT). ‘Keeping your faith [leaning completely on God with absolute trust and confidence in His guidance] and having a good conscience; for some [people] have rejected [their moral compass] and have made a shipwreck of their faith’ (1 Timothy 1:19 AMP). ‘They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience’ (1 Timothy 3:9 NIV). ‘Keep praying for us, for we are convinced that we have a good conscience, seeking to conduct ourselves honourably [that is, with moral courage and personal integrity] in all things’ (Hebrews 13:18 AMP). ‘The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a genuine faith’ (1 Timothy 1:5 NLT). As redeemed children of God, if we sin wilfully and don’t repent, we lose our sense of peace and joy. So let’s make the effort to keep our consciences clear and allow ourselves to be influenced by God.

What Now?

Look up the Bible verses in the reading and read the context of them. Make notes of any words or phrases that stand out to you, or anything God brings to mind, about keeping a clear conscience.