The Comfort of Forgiveness
Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church
September 21st Sermon, Day 3
One of the greatest comforts God offers to those who mourn over their sin is forgiveness. When we come to Him with honest sorrow over our wrongdoing, we don't find a stern judge waiting to condemn us. Instead, we find a loving Father eager to restore us.
God's forgiveness is complete and transformative. He doesn't merely overlook our sin or pretend it didn't happen. He fully pardons us, removing our sin "as far as the east is from the west." The weight of guilt and shame that we've been carrying is lifted, replaced by the lightness of grace and the joy of restoration.
This is why mourning over sin is actually a blessed state. It's not the mourning itself that's the blessing—it's where that mourning leads us. It leads us straight into the arms of a God who specializes in forgiveness and restoration. It leads us to a place where we can start again, free from the burden of past failures.
No matter how far you feel you've strayed, remember that you are only "one repentance away from being restored." God's forgiveness isn't earned through the intensity of our sorrow or the perfection of our future behavior. It's freely given to all who come to Him with sincere hearts, mourning over their sin and seeking His grace.
Bible Verse
"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
Reflection Question
Is there an area in your life where you've been hesitant to fully receive God's forgiveness? What might be holding you back from embracing His complete restoration?
Quote "We're all only one repentance away from being restored."
Prayer
Merciful God, thank you for your incredible promise of forgiveness. Help me to truly believe that when I come to you with godly sorrow, you completely forgive and restore me. Free me from any lingering shame or guilt that keeps me from fully experiencing your grace. Thank you that I am always just one repentance away from restoration. May I live in the freedom and joy of your forgiveness today. Amen.
