Finding Forgiveness

God's forgiveness is amazing. Romans 3:23 says all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Yet, God chooses to forgive when we ask in repentance. 

 

Some think they've been too bad or that God could never forgive them, but the Bible teaches that Christ’s shed blood is sufficient for all of our sins no matter how "bad" we've been. In 1 John 1:9, it says God forgives all who repent.

 

God will forgive us, but we have to be willing to confess our sins and turn from them. Forgiveness follows repentance. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God promises Solomon that if the people of Israel will turn from their wicked ways and honor Him that He will forgive their sins.

 

Repentance is more than just saying "I'm sorry." It means forsaking our sin, turning to God and following His way. Jesus’ blood paid for all of our sins. In John 1:29 and 1 John 1:7, John tells us that Christ shed his blood so that all of our sins may be forgiven, and Romans 5:12-21 tells us that Jesus’ blood is justification for all.

 

God will forgive even our worst sin. He's the God of second chances and more if we need it. Remember Matthew 18:22 where Jesus tells Peter to forgive "seventy times seven."

 

Jesus also challenges us to forgive others. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus commands us to forgive those that trespass against us. In the parable of the unforgiving servant, the servant that refuses to forgive is banished into eternal torment.

 

We all need forgiveness.  The apostle Paul said he was the "chief sinner," and he was forgiven. Therefore, we can trust that God will forgive our sins with full and complete repentance. 

 

Forgiveness can turn your life around. No matter what you've done or how "bad" you've been, there IS forgiveness! You don't have to hold on to the guilt of your sin. Turn to God and ask for His forgiveness. Like the prodigal son, you can find forgiveness and restoration with God if you'll run to Him and confess your sin. He will forgive you and give you a brand-new life.