Today’s blog is based on a poem I wrote about me. The word “repent” has been misused and misjudged, resulting in a judgemental connotation. Technically, we “repent” regularly throughout our lives. Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “regret or contrition or to change one’s mind.” Repentance, regret, or changing our mind is a sign of growth. It’s often the beginning of release, change, and redemption, even without the religious context. It could be going to alcohol or drug abuse programs. Maybe it’s deciding to stop dating toxic people. For some, perhaps it’s eating better or exercising. If only we could remove the judgment and sting from the word. We should see it for what it is—growth and an impetus for change.
Repentance, as we know, is basically not moaning and remorse, but turning and change.
J. I. Packer
Forgiveness
The most redemptive, powerful, life-changing act is turning to God, away from our destructive ways, and receiving His forgiveness. Repentance is changing your mind from thinking that our good works can get you to heaven. We experience true love by accepting that Jesus paid the price for our sins so that we would be forgiven. That is repentance. Regret is painful, but we don’t have to beat ourselves up and feel like worms. Jesus removes the sting of guilt when we come to Him. It is eternal. It enlivens our spirits and makes them pure before God. It provides us with eternal life.
“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses. Acts 13:38-39
The Poem
The poem is about someone who got angry and embraced a destructive lifestyle until they were tired. Then, they looked up and found God’s grace and forgiveness. This poem is my story.
I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins. Isaiah 43:25
He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.1 John 2:2
