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Conviction or Condemnation? How to Know the Difference


Scripture:"My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."— Proverbs 3:11-12 (NIV)


Let’s get real for a minute.


Have you ever done something you knew was wrong—but you didn’t feel bad about it? Or maybe you did feel bad, but it felt more like crushing shame than a gentle correction. That’s where we need to talk about conviction vs. condemnation, because knowing the difference will completely change how you view God and your relationship with Him.


Conviction: A Father’s Love

When we sin and we feel that tug in our heart—that’s conviction. It’s not there to guilt-trip us or make us feel like trash. It’s actually a beautiful, holy sign that we’re still in relationship with our Father. It’s Him saying,"That’s not My best for you, come back. I love you too much to let you drift."

Conviction is our spiritual alignment tool. It’s how the Holy Spirit gently nudges us back when we start veering off course. Like a father correcting his child, it's done in love and with our growth in mind.


Think of it this way: conviction is the Father’s discipline. Not punishment—discipline, which is rooted in love and always redemptive.


Condemnation: The Enemy’s Lie

Now condemnation—that’s a whole different story.

Condemnation sounds like this:“You’ll never change.”“You can’t be forgiven.”“Why even try?”

That’s not the voice of your Father. That’s the voice of the enemy, and it directly opposes what Jesus did on the cross. Condemnation leaves you stuck, ashamed, and disconnected. It whispers lies that make you doubt your worth and the power of God’s grace.

Let me tell you something: the cross already covered it. You don’t have to live under that weight.


Why It Matters

If we sin and feel nothing—that’s when we should be concerned. When our heart no longer feels conviction, we’re in danger of drifting away from God without even realizing it. But when we do feel that holy nudge? That’s a gift. It’s a sign our heart is still tender. Still listening.

Conviction keeps us tethered to His heart. Condemnation tries to pull us away from it.


Let’s Get Practical — 4 Action Steps

  1. Check the Fruit


    Ask yourself: Is what I’m feeling leading me closer to Jesus or pushing me away in shame?


    → If it draws you closer, it’s conviction.


    → If it isolates you, it’s condemnation.

  2. Talk to Your Father


    Don’t be afraid to go to Him and say:


    “Father, thank You for loving me enough to correct me. Help me walk in step with You.”

  3. Speak the Truth


    Out loud, declare:



    “I reject the lie that I’m too far gone. Jesus has forgiven me, and His grace is enough.”

  4. Stay Sensitive to His Voice


    Make space to sit in His presence. Let Him search your heart. Ask Him daily, “Lord, is there any area where I need to course correct?” (Psalm 139:23-24)


Final Thought

Friend, conviction is not something to fear. It’s something to be thankful for. It means you still care. It means you’re still connected. It means He’s still speaking—and you’re still listening.

Let conviction be your invitation, not your punishment. And remember: the cross is still enough.

You’re still His.


Want to dig deeper? Share in the comments: Have you ever confused conviction with condemnation? How did God speak to you through it?


In Him,

Heather Bradley







 
 
 

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