It's one of the greatest words man could ever hear. The word means "to pardon, a cancellation of debt or obligation." It has been used in the release of the captive, as they are set free. It is called forgiveness. However you define it in whatever terms, the one pardoned, set free and the debt cancelled, they enjoy the benefits. One is either forgiven or they aren't. There is no "kind of" forgiveness or partial forgiveness. Partial forgiveness is like being somewhat pregnant or just ringing half a bell. Let me say it again: YOU'RE EITHER FORGIVEN 100% OR YOU'RE NOT FORGIVEN AT ALL!
Why do so many in Christ live in the torment of their sins? They seem to grope about, hoping somewhere they will hit the forgiveness they seek. They say it is available, but there is no assurance. How can people sing: "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!" without knowing they are forgiven 100%? Are we faking? Lying?
God offers forgiveness through His Son. That's the covenant, the agreement. "Come to Jesus the crucified in your place and I'll pardon you" God speaks. When are we going to grab hold of His forgiving love? As long as one lives in their guilt, they are still guilty! As long as one is still guilty, they cannot be serving the Lord (Heb. 9:14). They are serving their guilt! They try to do things to relieve the pain, to make up for what they have done. That's loveless legalism, refusing the love of Christ. It creates a loveless life. A life that works it's way to God, always feeling the pressure to perform and never sure when enough is enough. That's why many fall away from the Lord. They get worn out from trying to perform!!! We just do not repent! We will not turn our hearts over to the Lord, submitting to His love for us because we will not receive His love. That day when the apostles thundered the news to the Jewish community they had crucified the Messiah from God, 3000 received the message and they found the forgiveness offered in Christ. How do we know? They were praising God, devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship and continued with one mind. These are the natural results of forgiveness.
When Israel refused God's word, He sent them back into the wilderness because they would not trust. Go ahead, speak about your sinfulness and shame. Face God with your horrible failures but whatever you do, trust Him! The indictments against you are true and yes, we are utter failures at times, but listen carefully at His calling and plea. Cling to His promises and rest assured He will do exactly as He says He will do. Trust His word! Trust His promises! Trust His assurances! Give your life to Jesus and hold to Him tightly, believing what He tells you. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9) Do you still doubt His forgiveness?
2 comments:
Oh...this is such a great message..once again! As I grow older...this "gift" of forgiveness just amazes me...the depth of love He has for us ...is hard for me to understand. (but, very thankful for) It's also important for us to be mindful of others who are struggling with overcoming... often we can treat them like they are still guilty.
Thanks for ALL of these!!!!!! :)
If we struggle with guilt and are unable to seek and accept forgiveness from God through Jesus (how many times have you heard someone say "I just can't forgive myself"? Makes me wonder why they aren't seeking forgiveness in the Lord.), then how can we forgive others as Jesus told us to do?
The act of practicing and accepting forgiveness should not be considered random events in our lives. It should be a way of life for us, as the example was set by Jesus. How wonderful is it to the soul when you know you have not held anything against those who have wrong you and better yet, how wonderful is it to forgive those who do regardless of the outcome.
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