God’s forgiveness extends to the worst offenders and to anyone who wishes to receive it – not because of who we are, but because of who He is.
– Charles Swindoll.
Todd Friel said, never forget, God is more interested in our holiness than He is in our happiness. The next time you feel the sting of God’s correction, ask yourself the question, “Of what do I need to repent?” When you do, God will forgive you. That is the way He is. This message struck me, because often when we feel the hand of God is against our ways, our reaction is to complain and whine. And the question, what do we need to repent of? gives us a different perspective on how we see our situations. It brings the focus back to God and His will for us – to strive for holiness in Christ.
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the Gospel According to Luke 15:22. Please, read our recent devotional from the Book of Numbers 33:55: Driving Out The Old Sinful You
God forgives, and His reaction is…
God is forgiving God. He is slow to anger and is abounding in love (Psalm 103:8). The parable of the prodigal son shows us the father’s happiness when his son realized his wrong actions. Moreover, the son verbally acknowledged that he had sinned against God and to his father for his decisions, which is a crucial part of a person’s penance.
After the prodigal son’s confirmation of his errors, the reaction of the father was rejoicing and celebration. This is the same as what Jesus said, Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:12). Also, the father forgave his son without question.
God’s forgiveness is given only to those who repent
God’s forgiveness is given to those who asked. A simple scenario is when you hurt someone to be forgiven you have to say you are sorry. And this is what should everyone do. Repent, ask for forgiveness from God and place your faith in Jesus, who had paid the ransom for your sin. And surely God will forgive you.
The same thing as the father dressed his son the best robes and shoes, we too will be clothed with the best clothing. Isaiah writes for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness (Isaiah 61:10).
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- Have you repented from your sins and ask God to forgive you?
- When was the turning point in your life?
- Is it hard for you to ask Jesus to be your Saviour? Accept Jesus Now.
- How do you share Christ with others?
- Are you living every day under the guidance of the Holy Spirit?
Related Posts
- The Lord’s Prayer – Matthew 6:9-13 – Part 2
- How To Understand The Mercies Of God?
- Give us a Perseverance Heart
- David’s prayer
- Repentance: Do Not Wait Until It Is Too Late
Prayer
Lord Jesus, for too long I’ve kept you out of my life. I know that I am a sinner and that I cannot save myself. No longer will I close the door when I hear you knocking. By faith, I gratefully receive your gift of salvation. I am ready to trust you as my Lord and Savior. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for coming to earth. I believe you are the Son of God who died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead on the third day. Thank you for bearing my sins and giving me the gift of eternal life. I believe your words are true.
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior. Amen.
(from Corsswalk.com)
