Finding Meaning in the Middle of Change Sample

From Regret to Restoration

We all have parts of our stories we wish we could erase. It could be the relationship that didn’t honor God. That time we didn’t live with integrity. The words we said that can’t be taken back. Maybe it’s an addiction nobody knows about. Left unmanaged, regret leads to guilt and shame. But what if, instead, our regrets could lead to reconciliation and repentance?

Paul wrote about this idea when he said: 

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

Godly sorrow—a type of regret—can be a gateway to God. But it’s not enough to just feel regret. It has to lead us to repentance—turning away from sin and turning toward God. 

When we follow Jesus, the Holy Spirit points out areas in our lives where we need to repent and ask God for forgiveness. When we do, we find freedom and forgiveness. Regret without repentance leads to worldly sorrow—which brings death. We see this play out in two of Jesus’ disciples. 

After Judas betrayed Jesus, he felt remorse about what He had done. But he never fully repented. He didn’t ask God for forgiveness. Instead, he allowed the shame of his mistake to be louder than God’s grace. 

Now, let’s look at Peter. As one of Jesus’ most vocal followers, He vowed to never deny Jesus. Yet he later denied Jesus three times. Scripture tells us that Peter “wept bitterly,” showing sorrow over what he’d done. Yet, Peter didn’t stay stuck in remorse. He showed repentance. 

As soon as Peter realized Jesus had risen, he rushed toward Him. Not only did Jesus invite Peter into reconciliation but also He gave Peter a purpose and responsibility—to lead people to Jesus.

Like Peter, when we repent, we’re restored. And God can use every part of our stories—even the parts we regret—to lead people to Himself.  

So, remember, regret only turns sour when we keep it to ourselves and hide it from God and others. But when we embrace regret, it can move us closer to God as we seek restoration and forgiveness.

Prayer: God, thank You that Your kindness leads to repentance. I know that You work all things together for good—even the parts of my story that cause me regret. Open my eyes to areas of my life where I need to repent and ask You for forgiveness.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge: Spend time asking God for any areas you need to repent from—even small shortcomings or bad attitudes. Then, experience His restoration.