When Jesus burst onto the scene, He said, "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" (Mark 1:15 NIV)

Repentance. It's an unpopular topic. And it certainly flies in the face of our do-whatever-makes-you-happy society.

But it matters to God. It's about deliberately turning away from those thoughts, attitudes, or actions that dishonour God, and turning back to the way of Christ.

Maybe we agree that repentance is a good idea. But then the week starts, and we begin working through our to-do list, and this idea of repentance fades from our mind's eye. That's why it can be helpful to take action and name something specific that we need to repent from:

"I will repent from ____________."

Ambiguity is the enemy of action. If we're unsure about whether it's important, or whether or not we have something to repent from, or whether or not it will make any difference in our daily life, we'll probably just do nothing. As a result, we may miss out on God's renovating power in our lives!

So, let's be honest about whatever thoughts, attitudes, or actions that we have that don't honour God. Then let's apologize and decide to live differently as a result.

Ambiguity is the enemy of action. So, let's get specific.

"I will repent from ____________:"

Prayer: Lord, I am a sinner in total need of Your saving grace. I have turned from Your way, but I want to turn back. I will repent from ____________. Amen.

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About the author:

Matthew Ruttan <matthew@matthewruttan.com>
Barrie, Ontario, Canada
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