Repentance is the most important and powerful thing for us as Christian, It brings us back to the place where we actually belong.
When God created man he did not create religion but a relationship. Bible says God came and had fellowship with him, when man sinned (disobeyed) against God, this sin separated man and God. Isa 59:2
Since then God wanted his people to repent from their sins and return to God, God spoke to his people from generation to generation through the prophets but the people would not listen to them. All the prophets came up with one message “Repent”.
In New Testament also this continued, John the Baptist came with the message “In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Matt 3:1-2.
Jesus also had a message; His message was “From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Matt 4:17
Even disciples also had a message, Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38
In the book of revelation the word repent is used more than 10 times.
What is Repentance?
The word repentance means, a change of mind, accompanied with regret and sorrow for something done, and an earnest wish that it was undone.
In other word Repentance means “Turn around” (To turn from sin to God). God wants you to hate the sin which you once loved and desire the righteousness you once ignored. Repentance is the first step that leads us back to God. Only feeling sorry for the mistake (sin) you have committed is not repentance!
What happens in true repentance?
When we look at the parable Jesus spoke in Luke 15 about a prodigal son, before he came back to his father’s house, four things he did. For you to come back to God you too must do this!
- He realized who he was.
- He recognized where he is now.
- He decided what he will do now.
- And was on his way back
Many people realize who they were, and recognized how badly they are suffering, but few people decide what they will do now? And very few people act on their decisions.
Unless you act on the decision you made, there will be no difference at all!
We all should grow in repentance everyday though you are a born again believer, because believe it or not we all grieve God in one way or the other by disobeying Him (committing sin).
There are two kinds of repentance:
- Godly sorrow: Ex David. When he knew that he sinned against God, he repented will all his heart and God restored him, he makes a prayer of his life in Ps 51
- Worldly sorrow: Judas Iscariot. After betraying Jesus he went to the priest and was sorry for do so, they said it’s your problem and finally he went out and hung himself. Matt 27:3-5
Bible says in 2 Cor 7:10: Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
He loves you and wants to spend time with you, and he want to share His heart with you. Do not allow your sin to stop you from reaching Him. Come on repent today! And enjoy your time with Him.
God bless you,
Jeevan and Leena
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