Pillars 5: Repent

In my work, I have many occasion to ask certain people what the difference is between the rules of the organization and one or more of their own actions.  Over the years, I have developed a working theory that is surprisingly accurate.  Those who quickly identify that their actions are not compliant with the standards set for them; and demonstrate a genuine contrite attitude over their shortcoming are almost certain to not make those same mistakes in judgement again.  However, those who blame others, blame their circumstances, or deny any wrongdoing altogether, are the same individuals who are doomed to repeat said offense multiple times.  This pattern of action, then denial or excuse, continues until a consequence is necessary.  In short, people do not stop doing something wrong until they admit to the wrong, and are convicted in their own minds to change their own behavior.  This is the Biblical principle of repentance at work. 

In the book of 2 Chronicles 7:14, God says this:
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

I love this verse.  It illustrates the principle of repentance.  God says, first we must humble ourselves.  We must do battle with the pride that lies within ourselves and admit that we messed up.  Then we can turn away from the wickedness (sin) in our lives.  The turning away from is repentance.  In turning away, or repenting from sin, we are telling God that we agree with Him that we have sinned.  We are also making a real effort to do away with our sin.  Repentance does not mean we stop sinning--we cannot stop sinning.  We can change our mind about sin.  We can agree with God that some actions we may have been making excuses for, or believing were right actions are actually sinful actions.  That is repentance. 

You see, repentance is key to a relationship with God through Jesus because God is holy, and a holy God cannot abide in sin.  Therefore our sin is a barrier between ourselves and God.  Thus, repentance is critical.

Jesus said in Luke 13:3, "Except ye repent, ye shall all like-wise perish."  Perish does not mean die, because 100% of us will die.  Perish means that our souls with spend eternity in damnation.  So, you see here how serious it is that we all repent.  Let us all repent and agree with God that we are sinful and recognize that we need the salvation of the cross.