My devotions this morning were a reminder of how Christ, with His unending supply of grace and unconditional love, gives us clean slates. I have spent many any hour or day going over my mistakes and my sins. I have reviewed and rerun my actions over and over. I have been told by several people in my life that I am harder on myself than anyone will ever be. Probably that is normal for most of us. I spent hours on my knees literally crying out to God for forgiveness with a repentant heart for sins I have committed. Things I felt that were unforgiveable.
He asks that we "confess our sins" and then states that "He is faithful and Just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9) We sin on a daily basis. No matter if we became a Christian yesterday or 20 years ago. Christ dwelling in us does not eliminate us from sinning. He will highten our awareness and make our conscience more sensitive to doing wrong as the Holy Spirit nudges us, but does not make us an exception. We don't have to repeatedly ask for forgiveness for sins, nor does that mean that God will hold it over our heads forever. We definately will suffer the consequences of our sins. His forgiveness does not remove that responsibility, but it allows us to come to God in prayer with a humble heart and a heart full of praise rather that guilt.
Life is too short to live it looking back at what we've done. Rather, let's look ahead at what opportunities we have today and tomorrow to use our gifts and share the Hope that lies within us this season. The hope of new life, life eternal and love everlasting.
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