Thursday, February 16, 2012

TRUE REPENTANCE

It seems that some people have a skewed view of what it means to genuinely ask for forgiveness. For some, its punishing and denying themselves until they feel like they have re-pleased God. For others, it's burning of candles and a sense of penance. Yet others feel like unless they cry it's not acceptable. Well, there are some views that are off, some half right views and others that are completely off.

I read an article that I wanted to share that I feel lays out a clear view of what true repentance looks like. Below is a great piece from an article by Mark Driscoll that i wanted to highlight to you today:

True repentance is a combination of three things:

1. Repentance includes confession. In confession, you agree with God that you have sinned. Confession includes both your mind and mouth.

2. Repentance includes contrition. In contrition, you feel what God feels about your sin. Confession includes both your emotions and expressions. Your heart is affected, not just your words.

3. Repentance includes change. In change, you stop sinning and start worshipping. Change includes your will and works.

The next time you come to a place where you are approaching God about an area of your life that requires repentance, remember that you are a whole being with many intricate parts and each of us respond differently. However, one thing must be present. You must be genuine.

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