What is your greatest need? We may not always realize that the power of forgiveness is the greatest need we will ever have. It begins by trusting Jesus as our Savior which leads to being forgiven by Him. This changes our lives today and in eternity.
Some people search their whole life for what will give them peace and fulfillment. Unfortunately, man search for peace apart from God. I remember a young woman who was successful, yet always had a hard look on her face. After she gave her life to Jesus, the hardness on her face was washed away like a mother washes a dirty face. Her facial appearance was softened by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This is the power of forgiveness that transforms us.
Jesus Came to Set the Captives Free
Perhaps you are searching for peace today, and the burden of your sins is great. You may have what the world offers, but that is still leaving you empty inside. Jesus tells us He came to set the captives free, meaning captive of sin.
Luke 4:18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free. [1] If you are captive to sin let Jesus free you by confessing your sin.
Stubbornness Interferes with Forgiveness
When Ezra read the word of God to the returning exiles, they were greatly moved. They began to repent of their own sins and the sins of their ancestors. Nehemiah 9:1On October 31 the people assembled again, and this time they fasted and dressed in burlap and sprinkled dust on their heads. 2 Those of Israelite descent separated themselves from all foreigners as they confessed their own sins and the sins of their ancestors.[2]
The Israelites were repentant but knew their ancestors had often hardened their hearts toward God. Then, they reflected on their ancestor’s stubbornness and God’s mercy. Nehemiah 9:16 “But our ancestors were proud and stubborn, and they paid no attention to your commands. 17 They refused to obey and did not remember the miracles you had done for them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to take them back to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You did not abandon them.[3]
Perhaps you are like the ancestors of the Israelites and the Lord is calling you today to humble yourself and come to Him to be forgiven! Remember forgiveness is at the heart of our Christian faith. Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.
To hear about the power of forgiveness, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/rebuilding-unfinished-hope-spiritual-renewal
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.