This week's study really gave me a clear picture of what repentance is. As with the previous weeks I can say I knew what the word (revival, humility, honesty) meant but I am beginning to realize I just had a vague understanding of each of those. Repentance is turning from our sin and following God in obedience. Sin separates us from God so we cannot find revival if there is something standing in our way. I will always remember an illustration a former pastor used (Donnie Preslar for those who know him!). Whenever his message included the topic of sin and how it separated us from God he would pull out his wallet and hold it horizontally between his hands. His wallet represented sin and as long as it was there the two hands could not join, it was in the way. A simple illustration yet it always sticks with me.
When God brings conviction of sin to my heart it allows me to experience His love and mercy. He doesn't want me to stay on that path of destruction. How fortunate am I to have that opportunity? Who would want to turn that down? I think when I let sin enter my life and I don't take care of it from the beginning (temptation) then I put aside His desires for my life.
"Before sin becomes an act, it is a thought. We call that being tempted. If we don't call out for God's help in these moments or allow ourselves to indulge in it we will likely commit the sin eventually." (p. 67) So many times I push those thoughts aside thinking I'll deal with it later or it's no big deal. I don't want to become numb or out of tune to the conviction the Holy Spirit brings.
"Create in me a clean heart,
O God, and renew a right spirit
within me."
Psalm 51:10
O God, and renew a right spirit
within me."
Psalm 51:10
5 comments:
He is a good and faithful God, and in some ways his conviction is one of the greatest ongoing illustrations of that mercy and grace. Thanks for your insight.
ah Karen, well done! Yes, being able to repent is an opportunity. So often I think we forget to look at it that way. Beautifully written, sis!
Love the wallet visual. I will remember that now.
And repentance as an opportunity...good stuff!
Beautifully written, Karen. Here's me nodding my head with you:
"As with the previous weeks I can say I knew what the word (revival, humility, honesty) meant but I am beginning to realize I just had a vague understanding of each of those."
Every time we get to the day 5, I realize just how short of the mark I remain, give thanks for what growth He's done in me despite me, and ask for more.
Lurve your illustration, too.
thanks for the tips about picnik and fiscars... and also for just sharing your heart.
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