Ask The Pastor

By Pastor Scott Denham of Harvest Fellowship, Shambaugh, IA

 

Lost!

 

Dear Pastor Scott,

            Sometimes, I don't feel like a very good Christian, and I worry that I've blasphemed the Holy Spirit. Is there any hope for me? --Worried in SW Iowa

Dear Worried,

            Let me throw out a few possibilities. First, the fact that you're worried about this, is an encouraging sign you have not "blasphemed the Spirit,” [Mark 3:29] by hardening your heart to the Lord’s work in your life. Your conscience seems alive and well. A person is more likely to be in great eternal danger when they no longer feel remorse for sin and care not about the condition of their soul.

            Secondly, we all have differing degrees of regret, and you may posses the type of temperament that feels guilty for everything. You may be doing better than you think you are, but some old stubborn thought patterns are robbing you of the joy of following Jesus. The best remedy for this is regular consistent time in fellowship with other Christians, renewing your mind through prayer and Bible study.

            Third, it really is as you say, that you've not been a very good Christian, and the very fact that you are concerned about this, indicates to me, that the Holy Spirit is tugging on your heart. As the old timers used to say, "The Hound Dog of Heaven" is after you, and He is not satisfied until He has transformed you into the person He has destined you to become. You know how you ought to be living. If this is the case, then "now" is the opportune time to give up the battle for self's dominion, and come under the loving rule of your Heavenly Father.

            No matter which of these three might apply to you, you have every reason to hope. One clear resounding promise from the Bible says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." [John 3:16] I love that "whoever,” part. There’s room enough in that for you!

--Pastor Scott

To submit your question for Pastor Scott, you may write to: Ask The Pastor, PO Box 98, Shambaugh, IA 51651, or on the web at www.askpastorscott.com