Ask the Pastor

By Pastor Scott Denham of Harvest Fellowship, Shambaugh, IA

Clarinda Herald Journal Publication Date : 08/22/2007

Scrupulosity

            “I am going through an absolutely HORRIBLE TIME...  and struggle almost constantly with Scrupulosity. I have a strong tendency toward legalism, and I feel so locked up in bondage right now that I am in deep despair and depression. I feel like my Christian life is too much to bear. Is there a place of joy and freedom for me?”

            Wikipedia defines Scrupulosity as an “obsessive concern with one's personal sins, including ‘sinful’ acts or thoughts usually considered minor or trivial...The term is derived from the Latin scrupulus, a sharp stone, implying a stabbing pain on the conscience. Often the person has a morbid feeling that they are rejected by God and doomed to damnation despite rigid adherence to rituals or rules of conduct.”

            That one should feel guilt for sin is normal. It provides us with an important motivation to turn from sin. But some of us are ‘wired’ to feel guilty to an unhealthy degree. Many factors account for this—including an unhealthy upbringing or various medical problems. For most, however, the solution to the problem of scrupulosity lies in God's work of redemption, revelation, and renewal.

            When we enter into our walk with Christ, we are made “a new person—the past is forgotten and everything is new” (2 Cor 5:17 CEV). However, this does not mean we come without “baggage”--old attitudes & problems left over from our life before Christ.

            No matter what contributes to our current state of mind, however, the way to spiritual health lies in a deeper revelation of God's love for us (Eph 3:18), a richer apprehension of His amazing grace (Eph 2:7), a larger grasp of Christs sacrifice on the cross paying the penalty for every sin (Heb 9:26), and in the renewal of our minds (Rom 12:2; Phil 4:8-9).

            To better participate with God in His work of redemption, revelation, and renewal, let me encourage you to give yourself to prayer, focusing more on simply enjoying God and worshipping Him, rather than working through some obligatory prayer list.

            Secondly, let the reading of God's Word be part of the adventure of getting to know and love Him more (Eph 1:17), and to the explore the depths of His mercy (Rom 3).

            Finally, join a small group Bible study to aid in 'the renewal of the mind' and so that you can find friends to encourage you in the journey. One final suggestion: Brennan Manning’s book, THE RAGAMUFFIN GOSPEL, will lead your soul “beside still waters" to revel in the great love and mercy of our God.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)