Daily devotion

And when He [the Holy Spirit] comes, He will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.
John 16:8 NLT

“Mom, I didn’t get my initials today!” my kids exclaimed while grenade-launching their backpacks into my SUV. Instead of saying hello to me after school (um, quite rude), these words about “initials” are usually the first to be shouted out of their PB&J-smeared mouths. Telling me that they successfully completed a school day without misbehaving is exciting to them.

Their teachers refer to initials as a “grace warning” (which is so cute). However, further disobedience naturally leads to stronger chalkboard warnings—a full name, a checkmark, a double checkmark, and eventually...the principal’s office. But the school’s consistency of grace-based correction methods allows my children to value the importance of obedience and respect; and in turn, it boosts their confidence when they choose to do the right thing.

The Holy Spirit does this for us too. The moment we act in ways that are unbecoming, He gives us a “grace warning” in the form of conviction. These warnings may start with a gentle nudge, but when we continue to choose sin, stronger warnings occur. Eventually, our disobedience may result in tough consequences, but He only convicts us in ways that are meant for our good.

I have grown to love the Holy Spirit’s conviction. Even when it’s embarrassing or painful, conviction is proof that He sees me. He sees me as valuable enough to refine my character for His glory. He sees me as precious enough to

redirect my life down a road of promises rather than pain. He sees me as capable enough to handle a greater purpose, as long as my heart remains aligned with His. His conviction gives me hope, and it boosts my confidence greatly.

Listen here: Conviction is a good thing, friend. Don’t deny it. Don’t run from it. Conviction doesn’t mean you’re altogether bad; it means that His plans for you are altogether good. Whether conviction comes in the form of wise counsel, Scripture, or His still, small voice—receive His conviction as a gift. He is pruning you to prepare you, and that is exciting!