Embracing the Depth of God’s Forgiveness
When we embark on our spiritual journey, we’re often reminded of the universal truth: “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Yet, we’re also promised that “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). As we grow in our faith, it’s natural to wonder: am I truly forgiven?
A Question of Forgiveness
As a young Christian, I struggled with feelings of doubt and uncertainty. Satan, my accuser, would often whisper lies, making me question my forgiveness. But as I delved deeper into Scripture, I discovered a powerful truth that brought me peace.
The Compassionate God
Psalm 103:8-13 paints a beautiful picture of God’s character: “The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love… He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” This passage reveals a God who is not only just but also merciful and loving. He doesn’t hold our transgressions against us, and His love for us is as vast as the distance between the east and the west.
The Unfathomable Distance
As I pondered the phrase “as far as the east is from the west,” I realized that no matter where we stand on this earth, the question of exactly where the east meets the west remains unanswered. This profound truth underscores the depth and breadth of our forgiveness, a reminder that our transgressions are completely removed from us.
A Prayer for You
My prayer for you is the same as Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians (Ephesians 3:16-21): that you may be strengthened with power through the Spirit, rooted and established in love, and filled with the fullness of God. May you grasp the width, length, height, and depth of Christ’s love, which surpasses all knowledge.
A Love That Transcends
As we bask in the glory of God’s forgiveness, may we be filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. May we recognize that His power is at work within us, enabling us to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine. To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Leave a Reply