Saturday, October 01, 2005
Breaking the Cycle - Step 2
Step 2: Repent
REPENTANCE (Gk. metanoia, a "change" of mind). In the theological and ethical sense a fundamental and thorough change in the hearts of men from sin and toward God.
(from New Unger's Bible Dictionary)
A turning away from sin, disobedience, or rebellion and a turning back to God.
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)
In 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 Paul speaks concerning godly sorrow and specifies that it is godly sorrow that brings about repentance. Godly sorrow is not simply regret at what we’ve done or the pain caused. It means understanding that we have grieved the heart of God and turning back to Him. Sometimes we think that repentance is simply being sorry for our actions but in truth true repentance is turning away from that which we know is wrong.
The greatest example of true repentance can be seen in words of David (Psalm 51). He came before God with a broken spirit and a contrite heart. After asking God to cleanse him from his unrighteousness we see David’s purpose to change. He tells God that he will teach others to do right and give God the praise.
He also asks God to uphold him with His free spirit. It’s not every weakness that we can overcome by ourselves. Some may require counselling or medical attention in extreme cases (drug dependence) but in everything GOD is our safety net who will keep us from falling.
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1 comment:
Repentence. It's a definite 'must' in our Christian lives. Many people think that repenting is just simply admitting that you sinned and then asking forgiveness. But, it also involves, as you said, a turning away from that sin. In other words, you don't do it anymore. It is something that might not happen right away, as some things take time to totally break free of (such as addictions). With God on our side and if we ask for His help, we can do it. I think with repentence it also take perseverence. If you truly want to be set free of something, you need to persever, you need to stay away from the temptation (for example with abstaining from drinking you need to stay away from the bars where the greatest temptation to drink would be). The Lord can and will and does help us to overcome our temptations and sins, but sometimes it takes a little footwork on our part.
Glory be to the one true Living God who has given us the greatest gift, Jesus the Christ to help us on our paths; to help us in repenting/turning from our sins and helping us to persever in all of this.
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