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True saints do not get discouraged over their faults, for they recognize that a person who feels no guilt can never find healing. Paradoxically, neither can a person who wallows in guilt. The sense of guilt only serves its designed purpose if it presses us toward the God who promises forgiveness and restoration.

I once thought Christians went through life burdened by guilt, in contrast to carefree unbelievers. I now realize that Christians are the only persons who do not have to go through life feeling guilty. Guilt is only a symptom; we listen to it because it drives us toward the cure.

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A ready-to-download Bible Study on this article is available at ChristianBibleStudies.com. These unique Bible studies use articles from current issues of Christianity Today to prompt thought-provoking discussions in adult Sunday school classes or small groups.

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Previous Yancey columns for Christianity Today include:

God's FuneralWhat will keep faith from nearly disappearing in America? (Sept. 3, 2002)

SheepishFeeling autonomous and proud? Then ponder the lives of sheep. (July 2, 2002)

Servant in ChiefJimmy Carter's journey from the White House to building houses.(May 28, 2002)

Why Do They Hate Us?How to turn the Baywatch syndrome into the Jesus syndrome. (March 27, 2002)

Honest Church MarketingWe enhance our 'image' by offering the world a realistic picture of faith. (October 24, 2001)

Compassion ConfusionWe should serve the needy even when it has bad political consequences. (August 28, 2001)

Fixing Our Weakest LinkEvangelicals should be more "needful of the minds of others." (July 13, 2001)

Replenishing the Inner PastorChurches should take greater interest in their shepherds' spiritual health. (May 14, 2001)

Beyond Flesh and BloodI used to disdain biblical talk of "invisible spirits." No more. (Mar. 27, 2001)

God at LargeA look around the globe reveals a God as big as we want him to be. (Jan. 31, 2001)

Humility's Many FacesEveryone I've looked up to has shared one trait. (Dec. 4, 2000)

Getting a LifeThe most fully alive persons are those who give their lives away. (Oct. 16, 2000)

Yancey's Where is God When it Hurts, Special Edition and Soul Survivor: How My Faith Survived the Church are available on Christianbook.com.

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November 18 2002, Vol. 46, No. 12