"But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness." 1 John 1:9 (NLT)
Typing. In Junior High I had to take a typing class, and oh, how I detested that class! The typing part was okay and could even be a little fun, but the teacher was not fond of me. She had her star pupils and I simply was not one of them and she wasn't afraid to let me know that. She would stand behind me and yell each time I was about to make an error. To this day, I tense up even at the thought of a typewriter, which is silly because I can type absolutely fine on a computer keyboard.
Have you had someone like that in your life? Someone who delights in pointing out your perceived inadequacies? I would be very surprised if you answered no. I think we all have encountered a person here and there who, for whatever reason, seems to have a need to make us feel inferior.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if life had a "delete" button? Just like we do if we make a mistake while typing, we could back up, hit that wonderful little button, and see our sin completely disappear. Imagine how much easier it would be if we could do that.
There have been many times when I have wished for a second chance. Times when words came out of my mouth that I wish I could take back. Times when my parenting was less than it should have been. Times when my actions toward a friend or loved one fell far short of the love that I should have shown.
If I could go back to an earlier time, knowing what I know now, there are so many changes I would make! But, alas, going back to correct my words and actions is not an option.
But, I have great news! We serve an amazing heavenly Father who promises to cast our sins away as far as the east is from the west. Today's verse says that if we confess our sins to Him, He will forgive and cleanse us. What incredible love!
Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh every morning."
Our God is a God of second chances. Each day is a chance to do better. His forgiveness is complete when we sincerely confess our wrongs and He remembers our sins no more. In Him we can be free of the weight of guilt and shame. In Him we can find rest and peace.
I know the feeling of not being able to do anything right. I'm sure you do as well. And while we don't have a "delete" button to undo our errors, we have the assurance that the Lord's forgiveness is true and thorough and that His love, His grace and His mercy are always available. God bless.
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