Condemnation

  Who and what is the source when we feel condemnation? And... exactly what IS condemnation? I suspect we all think we know what it is... do we? Webster says that it is primarily an act that we express toward someone or something. Most synonyms use the word 'condemn' in them which is not helpful for understanding. We know what it is we 'do' when we are doing the condemning - expressing strong disapproval of (fill in the blank). But what is the basis for the condemning? What causes it? Condemn is an action word expressing strong disapproval. But isn't there far more?

   To 'combat' the affects of expressions of condemnation toward me, the scripture that gives me hope is Romans 8:1 "There is now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus." Wow! No, None, Not. Of course this is not a blanket statement, God would never sanction sin. So, when you feel condemned, where is this coming from? You can't say God because He makes a way for us to return to fellowship when we do or say something that is sinful. (1John 1:9). Besides I believe His focus is condemning the behavior. Is this a case of self-condemnation? If so, what are you doing to make amends? And equally important, are you forgiving yourself and changing how you respond? What IS your (new) behavior to change your condition? It can't be only words.

  Probably the hardest, most painful time is when the condemnation is expressed by others, especially significant others. How do we react? What do we do? Obviously the point is who is expressing it and whether or not we feel the condemnation is justified. Regardless, I suspect we can never simply ignore it - in some way condemnation requires a response. The extent and 'depth' of the condemning is also an issue. Sometimes in the face of it, justified or not, we feel completely helpless.

    For a moment, consider the opposite of condemnation: approval, endorsement... acquittal, pardon, release. Perhaps it is the last 3 antonyms that become the focus of our change. We need to feel, to know, to believe that we can change, we can improve. If the condemnation is unjustified, many times our only alternative is to simply live with it and let time disprove the accusation. The most important lesson to be learned is to not let this cripple or damn us in our own thinking that there is no hope. When it is our fault then we can work to overcome. When it isn't, then we can stand. And never forget that we have a forgiving Father God who is always with us.