The Freedom of Forgiveness
When we try to hide from God, it’s like trying to conceal ourselves under a blanket, only to have our feet sticking out for all to see. We may think we’re being clever, but God’s omniscience sees right through our attempts to escape His gaze.
The Struggle with Shame
So, why do we try to hide from God in the first place? Often, it’s because we’re crippled by shame. Satan whispers lies, telling us we’re not good enough, that our past mistakes disqualify us from sharing the Gospel. He convinces us that God doesn’t truly love us, that we’re unworthy of forgiveness. But this is a deception. God’s love is boundless, and His forgiveness knows no limits.
The Power of Forgiveness
In Matthew 18, Peter asks Jesus how often he should forgive his brother. Jesus responds by saying we should forgive not just seven times, but seventy-seven times. If we, as frail and limited humans, are called to forgive so freely, how much more does God forgive us? Psalm 103:11-13 reminds us that God’s love is as vast as the heavens are above the earth, and He has removed our transgressions from us as far as the east is from the west.
A New Identity
One of the most empowering verses in Scripture is 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse, along with others, assures me that I have a complete new identity in Christ. In God’s eyes, I am pure, holy, honorable – utterly forgiven and loved. God sees me not as I am today, but as I will be in eternity – perfectly delivered from all sin, fully in His image (1 John 3:1-4).
Breaking Free from Shame
The next time you’re tempted to play hide and seek with God, ask Him to remind you of who you are in His sight. Remember, you are a new creation, forgiven and loved. Trust in God’s forgiveness, and you’ll find true freedom from the weight of shame.
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