ABSENCE OF GUILT

The "absence of guilt" does not mean we "have the HOLY SPIRIT".  Matthew13:14, "...you will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive..."  A "hardened heart" convinces us we seek TRUTH; but our quest is "twisted" and our Spiritual Journey leads us away from GOD not toward GOD...(Romans 3:11-12).  A hardened heart sees sin as something that just doesn't apply, or maybe doesn't even exist, in his life.  When we invite the DIVINE PRESENCE of the HOLY SPIRIT, we see (and perceive) sin in our lives; we become contrite, humbled and repenting as the GIFT OF SALVATION is REVEALED.  In that PIERCING  MOMENT we realize HE did this while we still weren't seeking HIM and still rebelling with an arrogant "hardened heart".   It is LOVE that opens our eyes to HIS DIVINE PERFECTION, HIS FORGIVENESS AND HIS PEACE.  WITHOUT HIS LOVE, THE ABSENCE OF GUILT IS ONLY A HARDENED HEART.