T H E O P H I L U S

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. – John 3:17

There are sins in our lives that we often get down on ourselves about. They often seem like they’ve taken so much precedence in our lives that we feel we are unworthy of forgiveness from them. To think about Jesus dying on the cross for our sins likely only makes us feel more guilty and shameful for the sins we committed. In fact, hearing that gospel for some of us drives us to be more shameful of ourselves than to receive it as good news. But why is that? I believe that we are afraid in many respects. We are afraid of failure. We are afraid that when we come to God for the forgiveness of our sins, we may fail again, and again. It makes us feel unworthy and as if we are a disappointment to God. But that is far from the truth.

The first step to knowing God’s forgiveness is when we stop condemning ourselves. It is not God who is blocking us from getting to heaven, but rather our own fear that stops us from truly experiencing the greatness of God’s love for you and I.

Salvation is not given to those who feel that they have overcome their sins, but rather in acknowledging that Christ died on the cross and overcame them for us. To forgive oneself means we have faith in knowing the unconditional love and forgiveness the Lord has for us. To know the depth of God’s forgiveness for us is then first to take the step in forgiving ourselves.

Today, if there are sins in your life you fear you may commit again – one that you avoid talking about with God – may you know that it is not too late today. There is another chance for you. The Lord will not condemn you, but rather give you a way out – Jesus is that way out. Cling to him even in your sin, and may he show you the way to overcome them.