The concept of the "Inward Witness" refers to the internal conviction and assurance of one's faith, as experienced by believers in the Christian tradition. According to Romans 8:16, the Spirit of God bears witness with our spirits that we are children of God, providing an inward testimony of our adoption into God's family. This inward witness is also related to the concept of conscience, as seen in Romans 2:15, where the Apostle Paul notes that the law is written on the hearts of all people, guiding their moral judgments and actions. As Psalms 119:11 suggests, the Word of God can also serve as a source of inward guidance and witness, guiding believers in their walk with God and providing a sense of assurance and comfort in their faith.
A.W. Tozer addresses the fear of emotions in the Christian experience, emphasizing that the neglect of the inward witness has led to a decline in spiritual vitality. He critiques the tendency among evangelicals to suppress feelings and experiences out of fear of losing dignity or becoming fanatical.