A Right View of Repentance

“And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things. 3 But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who will render to each person according to his deeds.” Romans 2:2-6

Not only does repentance include physically turning away from sin; it also includes a mental or intellectual change in the way we view sin. When we repent of a certain sin, we agree with God that what we did was wrong. Therefore, we willfully choose to step away from sin.

Repentance is not an emotional act. However, it does involve our emotional well-being. True repentance surfaces feelings of both remorse and regret over the obvious breach we have allowed to invade our lives. Sin separates us from fellowship with God, while repentance restores our intimacy with Him.

Forgiveness for sin was provided once and for all by Jesus Christ at Calvary. When God views us, He acknowledges the atoning death of His Son as payment for our sins. Our acknowledgment of those same sins allows us to personally receive and enjoy His complete forgiveness.

Some Christians think they can enjoy the security of being saved by God’s grace while living life with a sinful vengeance. But true salvation denotes a humble spirit and a repentant heart. There is no way to live a victorious Christian life while coveting sin. Ask God to help you come to grips with any sin in your life. His restoration is always available through repentance.

“He is the one whom God exalted to His right hand as a Prince and a Savior, to grant repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.” Acts 5:31