Introductory Thoughts
Man’s conscience has proven to be one of the most undervalued possessions held by man. The Bible shows that the apostle Paul understood the value of his conscience. He exercised himself to ensure that his conscience was void of offence toward both God and other men. When Paul testified before the council, he could proclaim that he had “lived in all good conscience before God” to that day (Acts 23:1). This did not just happen by chance because Paul described his efforts as exercise (work). It took constant effort. It required willingly denying himself and considering the will of the Lord. The apostle Paul is with the Lord, but the same principles hold true for anyone else who desires the testimony of a good conscience void of offence.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Paul was careful how he treated people (1 Corinthians 9:19, 27). He could truly give this testimony of himself: Acts 20:26-27; 2 Timothy 1:3a. He told Timothy that serving the Lord included keeping a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:18-19).
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(For everyone): Do you work hard to have a conscience void of offence? Do you strive to be right with the Lord? Do you strive to keep things right in your relationships with others?
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What are some steps that you could take to preserve a good conscience in the sight of men? What could you do to ensure a good conscience in the sight of God?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to show you any problems in your conscience.
- Ask the Lord to protect your conscience.
Song
O TO BE LIKE THEE
