Understanding What the Bible Says About Our Inner Voice
Have you ever felt a nudge inside you, telling you to do what’s right—or warning you when something’s off? That quiet inner voice is what the Bible calls the conscience. The conscience is like an inner compass, given by God, that helps us steer our lives toward what’s good and away from what’s wrong.
What Is the Conscience?
The Bible describes the conscience as a kind of inner witness. Even people who haven’t read the Bible or learned God’s laws often have a sense in their hearts about right and wrong. That’s because, as the apostle Paul explains, God’s law is “written on their hearts”—so everyone has this built-in guide.
Keeping a Clear Conscience
Paul, one of the early Christian leaders, made it his mission to keep a clear conscience before God and other people. What does that mean? It means trying to live honestly, without hidden guilt or shame. Paul didn’t just talk about faith—he lived it out by being truthful and caring about how his actions affected others.
The Bible also teaches that our actions matter, not just for ourselves but for those around us. Hurting someone else’s conscience is taken very seriously. Real love, the Bible says, comes from a pure heart and a good conscience. When our conscience is healthy, it helps love and faith grow.
What If the Conscience Is Damaged?
Sometimes people can ignore their conscience so much that it becomes “seared” or numb. When that happens, it’s easier to make choices that are hurtful or wrong. But the good news is that God, through Jesus, can cleanse and renew our conscience. Faith, baptism, and turning to God help heal our inner compass so we can serve God with a clean and honest heart.
Living with Integrity
Living by your conscience isn’t always easy, especially if it means going against what others expect or want. But the Bible encourages us to hold on to our integrity—even if it costs us the approval of others. Suffering for doing the right thing is described as honorable in God’s eyes.
Paul’s example in the Bible is powerful: even when people accused him of things he didn’t do, he stood firm because he knew, deep down, that his conscience was clear before God and people. He wasn’t perfect, but he kept striving to do what was right.
· Integrity: Living above reproach, without secret guilt
· Purpose: Always aiming to align your life with God’s truth
· Accountability: Being open and honest, knowing your actions affect others
The Takeaway
Your conscience is a precious gift—a lamp lighting your path. It’s not perfect, and we all make mistakes, but the Bible says our conscience can be shaped, cleansed, and renewed by God. The goal isn’t to be flawless, but to stay humble, honest, and open to correction, letting God’s Word guide our steps.
Let’s make it our aim, like Paul, to keep a clear conscience before God and others. That’s how we live lives that shine with integrity, love, and faith.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 