That They May Repent...

"It is the greatest and dearest blessing that ever God gave to men, that they may repent; and therefore to deny or to delay it is to refuse health when brought by the skill of the physician - to refuse liberty offered to us by our gracious Lord."  - Jeremy Taylor

To feel or express sincere regret or remorse about our wrongdoing is something many were taught as children. Our parents or caretakers may have employed various methods to encourage and reinforce this.

The intention always was to learn and correct bad behavior, and turn it around. This applies to "repentance" in the Bible. Basically, it's "changing" one's decision or opinion, and actions toward sin (Luke 3:8–14; Acts 3:19).

The stakes involved with repentance of sin are quite high, though. Our eternal, spiritual deliverance is on the table. Are you willing to gamble with yours? Make no mistake, however, this is no game (Luke 13:3).

Where does repentance begin? It starts with admitting that you are a poor and miserable sinner. As mentioned above, admission of wrongdoing is not easy, but it is a necessary starting point. Nervous..?? Don't worry, you're in good company (Proverbs 28:13).

We all come into this world sinners, there are no exceptions. As worthless sinners, we have no righteousness of our own. In this woeful and depraved state we are at the mercy of sin; we are helpless as a ship lost at sea without a rudder.

It isn't easy to admit when one is wrong. Let's face it, no one enjoys having to face up to their weaknesses, flaws, or deficiencies. But we must lay it all out before God if we are to show our true repentance of sin (1 John 1:9).

You see, in order for us to receive heaven's kingdom we must be blessed. And without our repentance of sin, it's just not possible. God can't repent for us, and why should he? It's our sin, not His.

Fortunately for us, God is patient. He knows that some are hesitant to step forward, and is willing to work with us. On the other hand, our time here is limited and uncertain. The clock is ticking. Don't put repentance off another day!

Scripture: Acts 3:19; Acts 17:30; Matthew 3:8; Matthew 4:17; Ezekiel 18:21

Prayer: Dear Lord, be gracious to me; heal me, for I have sinned against you! I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin, amen.

Stay blessed,

Becky Lynn