Cut to the Heart

January 25

(Acts 2:37 NIV) ““When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?””

(John 16:6-8 NIV) “Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief. {7} But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. {8} When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment:”

(2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV)  "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death."

Peter boldly preached the truth. What happened next was truly divine. God’s Holy Spirit convicted those who heard Peter’s message. They were cut to the heart and began to cry out for mercy. They experienced a conviction that only the Holy Spirit can produce. Preachers and witnesses take note: there is a fine line between laying guilt on someone and leading them toward godly conviction. Earthly guilt can only take people so far -- heavenly conviction can take them all the way to Jesus. Carnal guilt drives people away -- godly conviction brings them to the foot of the cross. Guilt is used to manipulate, and keeps people in bondage -- godly conviction is designed to set us free. Anyone can dish out guilt -- a few are gifted to help God do surgery on hardened hearts, which promotes true healing. When the Holy Spirit is involved, it’s a good thing to be cut to the heart. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day