When we observe children’s interactions, we can see the difference between “being sorry” and true repentance. Whether it’s a hand in the cookie jar, drawing on a wall, or being mean to a sibling, you’ll likely remember a moment where a child will mutter an “I’m sorry” only to be found moments later doing the same thing.
Repentance is much more than just admitting you’ve done wrong. True repentance requires a change in our thinking and our hearts, putting on a new perspective from God. This new perspective includes what we think about God, what we think about ourselves, and what we think about the world around us.
Repentance is not motivated by the desire to “get out of trouble”, but it is instead motivated by a love for God and a sincere desire to obey His commandments. Who helps us with this process? The Holy Spirit. Listen to what Jesus says about the Holy Spirit in John. (The Holy Spirit is also known as the Advocate, or Helper in the ESV Bible Translation.)
“But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.”
John 16:7-8 NLT
As part of His work in the world, the Holy Spirit draws our hearts to Him and convicts us of sin. He reveals to us our disobedience and offers us the strength to choose obedience.
So what does repentance look like in the life of a believer?
- Recognize – I must recognize that I am a sinner and that my sinful actions and desires have brought me to the condition I am in.
- Action – I must turn my back on sin and begin to walk in the opposite direction, looking to God for forgiveness and the Holy Spirit for power to change.
Recommended Reading: Luke 15:12-22, John 14:26, also 15:26, Romans 15:12-14, Galatians 5:22-23
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV
No matter where you’re at on your journey of repentance, take heart. God’s forgiveness and grace are endless, and He offers to us a way of true and lasting change. Think and ask God about how you stand before Him: Are you arrogant or humble? Are you repentant or are you like a child that grumpily mouths the words “I’m sorry”?
Today, pray to God for forgiveness and to clean you of your sins. Pray for strength to stand fast and to not fall into temptation. Pray for people to encourage you in your journey. Stay in God’s word and start with just 1 page a day.