Today’s Reading
“Therefore, repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” (Acts 3:19 NASB)
“Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from you sin?” (NLT)
If you have ever felt regret and changed your mind, you are aware of the basis of one of the most important spiritual principles in the Bible – Repentance. It is the one and only way to peace.

We need to go to God and ask forgiveness, change our minds, make a 180 degree turn and go towards God’s word. Encompass it, breathe it, live it out fully. Repentance requires taking a new point of view; looking at it God’s way. God simply asks us to turn. It is a change of our heart along with behavior choices. It is a response of the total person, a total surrender.

We repent in our initial conversion as a Christian, but it is a constant checking of our heart condition throughout life. It is not just being sorry, or apologizing when getting caught; that’s remorse. In essence, anything that is not a Godly response in any of our circumstances and relationships is sin. The sin in which we need to repent for, creates a chasm between God and us that cannot be bridged by our own human efforts. No matter what you have done, God has made a way home — through his Son, Jesus Christ.

Reflection
We all need to repent. It is ongoing. Things creep into our lives so subtlety. It could be something as simple as envy, control or pride. Ask God to show you what you might need to repent about today. Not only do we need to ask for forgiveness, but we also need to change our mind and heart toward contentment instead of envy; total surrender instead of control; or humility instead of pride.
Your heavenly Father is not looking for ways to punish you. God is just, but He is also a loving Father, patiently waiting with open arms.

Prayer
Precious Father, I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. Your Word says that it is Your patience and kindness that leads me to repentance. So, I come to You humbly, and confess my sin. I thank You that You forgive me by the blood of Jesus, and ask for a fresh cleansing of my body, soul and spirit. Teach me how to walk honestly before You in repentance every day. In Jesus’ name; amen.