Friday, November 20, 2009

2 Corinthians 3:18 "True Acceptance"

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. ~2 Corinthians 3:18

Two major aspects of the transformation that Jesus brings that are sometimes overlooked are forgiving ourselves/others and repentance. When we ask God to forgive our sins, we must also forgive ourselves for the sins we’ve committed and forgive those who have sinned against us. Too often people will hang onto the shame and pain and really stall themselves in the process of transformation. Jesus didn’t die for us to dwell in the midst of the muck. He died so we’d have victory. Therefore, we need to completely let go of all that is associated with that sin.

Forgiveness is not the only problem. Many people do not choose repentance. Repentance is completely turning against our sin. We must make a 180 degree turn to choose to leave old ways behind that led us to that sin and to walk the path Christ has for us. Only when we choose to turn away from evil will we see the true glory of God.

Further Thoughts:

  1. Find Scripture on forgiveness and repentance. Write out one of each here.
  2. Are there sins in your past that you haven’t forgiven yourself for? Write out a declaration of forgiveness to yourself.
  3. Who do you need to forgive? You don’t have to go to them. They may not even know they’ve hurt you. But in your heart you need to forgive them for the wrong they’ve done. Write out a statement of forgiveness to them.
  4. What parts of your old way of life do you keep hanging onto? List the areas of your life that need a 180 degree turn from.

Father, help me to forgive myself and others and teach me to turn away from the old me and build on the new. Amen.

1 comment:

  1. Forgiveness is powerful. I've experienced peace as I've learned to walk in the freedom of Christ. Turning from our sin is huge to me too. So thankful for the grace of God in my life. I can't imagine where I'd be if it weren't for His love.

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