We all love the promise in 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.” God’s forgiveness puts us in the
right relationship with Him.
Asking
for forgiveness is not just being absolved for disappointing Jesus though. It
should be a desire to change and stop sinning. That’s called repentance. God
will forgive, but we must want to change and sin no more. Jesus calls on
sinners to repent in Matthew 8:11 (after He forgave), Jesus declared, "Go now and leave your life of sin."
Our culture looks at not being punished as
the reward. Serving Jesus in faith, obedience, and in the right relationship is
what should truly matter to all followers.
Amen?
