Experiencing Jesus Together Through Lentنموونە

Day 26:
Scripture:
“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” 1 John 1:9

A Call To: Repentance
I remember memorizing this verse at Pioneer Clubs as an elementary child. I didn’t understand the significance and power that this verse held at the time, but as life happened and I was faced with situations where either I sinned or I needed to forgive someone who hurt me, this verse was a simple reminder that he will forgive me--it’s a promise!

I love this version of the verse: “But if we freely admit our sins when his light uncovers them, he will be faithful to forgive us every time. God is just to forgive us our sins because of Christ, and he will continue to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

God wants to see us free from sin more than we ever could. If we can’t bring our sins into the light because of fear, rejection, or shame then what was the point of Jesus dying on the cross?.

Fear is a liar. The more we humble ourselves and go before God in repentance the less scary it becomes. Imagine your child coming to you to  confess that they did something wrong. Imagine yourself getting down to their level, holding their sweet little face in your hands & staring into their eyes as they come bravely before you to say that they are sorry and to ask for forgiveness. Compassion overcomes you and of course you will forgive them. You are so proud that they came to you and you love that child so much you wouldn’t want to have anything in between your relationship that could break connection with them.

I imagine God approaching us in a similar manner. God is just, and we should have a holy fear and reverence for him, but his wrath was justified on the cross. There are consequences for our choices, but not punishment. A friend of mine explains that discipline or a consequence is to spur you on to do better and punishment is payment for your sins, there is not a lot of intentionality around it and the motive could stem from anger or fear. Our punishment was paid on the cross!

Reflection:
How do you view punishment versus consequences? In your own relationships in life are you motivated out of fear or love when you feel hurt, offended or lied to? Do you view God as an angry God or a loving God?

Praise + Prayer:
Father God,
Show me if there are any areas of my life that I’m viewing You through a lens of fear. Thank You that I can approach you at any time, that You are a safe place for me to reveal my heart too-- my struggles, sins, passions and goals. You are so good. Thank You for sending Jesus to take my punishment. In Jesus' name, Amen.