Living in Increase (Part 11) - Increase in JoySample

Receive Forgiveness

The most remarkable story of forgiveness began in a manger thousands of years ago. God sent His only Son to be born of a virgin, fulfilling the words of the prophets. This was part of a plan that would provide a means of restoring the relationship between God and His greatest creation. Without the death of His Son, forgiveness was not possible. God knew the sacrifice that He was making would be difficult but necessary.

The miracle of Jesus’s birth was announced to a group of shepherds. They said, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” The birth of any child brings enormous amounts of joy. But in this case, God knew what was coming. He knew that the birth of Jesus was where joy began. The greatness of this joy would only be accomplished through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Yesterday’s devotion was about the prodigal son. That story mirrors our story. God, our Father, longs to forgive us. He desires to have a relationship with His children. He loves each of us so much that He was willing to sacrifice His only Son so that forgiveness is possible. All we have to do is accept the forgiveness that is graciously offered. The overwhelming joy when a person accepts this forgiveness is truly indescribable.

The joy that comes from someone coming to the saving grace of our Father is contagious. When someone repents and is forgiven, God throws a party. Matthew 15:10 says, “There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Absolute joy is found through forgiveness!

Julie Austin

Action Step: Starting a relationship with God can happen today. Ask God to forgive you and accept His forgiveness. If you’re already a believer, thank God for His forgiveness and recommit your life to Him.