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Sunday, August 19, 2012

Truly Forgiven

"Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: 'The Lord knows those who are His,' and, 'Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity" (2 Timothy 2:19)

Sin is a big problem. It worms its way into our lives, distorts our viewpoints, and influences every decision. God knew that none of us could have defeated the power of sin, so He acted on our behalf by sending His Son into the world to conquer sin. For those of us who have received Jesus as Lord and Saviour, that victory has removed the penalty of sin from our lives.

Unfortunately though, our acceptance of Christ does not stop us from sinning. Although we love the Lord and rejoice in His saving hand, we find ourselves continually struggling with sin in our lives.

This is a great surprise to many new Christians, who come to Christ thinking that their old passions will simply disappear. This is rarely, if ever, the case. Instead, e must take responsibility for our sinful actions and cravings. This does not mean that we should attempt to "clean ourselves up"; rather, we must be honest with God about our sin and invite His cleansing power into our darkest parts.

Second Corinthians 7:1 calls us to 'cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God". We 'cleanse ourselves' by becoming aware of the sin in our lives, laying it down, and walking away from it. That is what repentance means - to turn from old behaviors. 

Thank You, Lord, that I am truly forgiven. Because I am forgiven, I can forgive others. I rejoice in Your forgiveness. Amen

~Charles Stanley~

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