From; Brenda Walsh Ministries
Sweet Peace of Forgiveness
Whenever we have done something that we know to be wrong, our conscience kicks in and triggers the guilt feelings that draw us to repentance. The only way to obtain real peace is to first acknowledge our sin and then to ask God for forgiveness. Without the Holy Spirit speaking to our heart, we would never realize our need for forgiveness. Sin always separates us from God, and if we want to restore the bond between us and our Lord and Savior, then we need to ask God to forgive our transgression. Immediately, our burden is lifted, and the sweet peace of forgiveness is restored in our hearts. There is no better feeling in the world than when we are one with Christ! Sometimes, you may have a friend or family member that has sinned against God, but they are not willing to ask for forgiveness. Although we love them dearly, we can not ask for forgiveness on their behalf. God does not hold us accountable for the choices of others - only for our own. Neither can we repent for them - they must want and ask for forgiveness for their own sin. However, we can lift them up in prayer that God will give them the strength to repent and send the Holy Spirit to speak to their heart. We can always pray an intercessory prayer for our loved ones - especially when they are too weak to pray for themselves. Text: Isaiah 44:22, Matthew 18:21-22, 1 John 1:9