The Emotions of Repentance #RTTBROS #nightlight #normankissinger #NK

The Emotions of Repentance #RTTBROS #nightlight #normankissinger #NK

 

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord." Acts 3:19 (KJV)

This verse from Acts speaks an essential truth - that we must repent of our sins in order to receive forgiveness and restoration. The word "repent" means to turn away from and forsake our sins. It requires an inward change of heart that leads to an outward change in behavior and lifestyle. True repentance involves godly sorrow over sin, confessing and forsaking it.

Repentance is not just feeling sorry - it's a change in direction. We turn from our sinful path and realign our lives to God's will and ways. The verse promises that when we repent, our sins are blotted out. Through Christ's redemptive work on the cross, God removes the stain and guilt of sin from our lives. What an incredible promise!

Repentance also leads to renewal - "times of refreshing" from the Lord's presence. When we walk in obedience, we experience the joy, peace and blessing of close fellowship with God. Sin creates distance in our relationship with Him, but repentance restores intimate communion with the Lord.

True repentance is a gift from God, made possible by His grace. We cannot manufacture or work up repentance on our own. The Holy Spirit awakens our hearts to recognize and turn from sin. Conviction leads us to godly sorrow, and God's kindness leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).

The call to repentance reminds us that Christianity is not passive. Salvation is a free gift we receive by faith, but it calls us to active obedience and turning from sin. We must respond to God's offer of grace by repenting and embracing holiness.

This verse holds both a warning and a promise. The warning is that refusing to repent will block our fellowship with God and lead to spiritual decay. But for the willing heart, it promises cleansing, renewal and the refreshing presence of the Lord. May we heed this call to repentance today!

Repentance can bring up conflicting emotions within us. There is joy and relief in being forgiven, restored to God, and knowing our sins are cast away. But there can also be sadness and sorrow over all that was lost or damaged through the sin we are repenting of. Both responses are normal and even necessary for true repentance.