Repentance involves recognizing that we were wrong in the past and now propose to do right in the future. The repentant person has “second thoughts” about the mindset he formerly embraced. There is a change of disposition and a new way of thinking about God, about sin, about holiness, and about doing God’s will. A new person is born. True repentance is prompted by “godly sorrow,” a change of heart and attitude and which in turn “leads to salvation” II Corinthians 7:10 “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” There are certain ways of growing in the joy of repentance:
• We must recognize the fact that we are sinners and need to repent and come out of this situation. We need to have Godly sorrow for our deeds. Godly sorrow is different than worldly sorrow. Worldly sorrow is simply regret, but it does not make you want to repent. When you truly feel godly sorrow, you are fully aware of the sin you have committed against God, and therefore you are committed to work toward repentance.
• Next, we must not only feel sorrow for our sins but must also confess them and forsake them. Some sins only need to be confessed to God. This can be done through prayer, in an open and honest way.
• True repentance involves turning away from sin and making a conscious decision to change our ways. Jesus often told those He healed to “go and sin no more” (John 8:11). For us, turning away from sins is more than just a temporary change; it’s about committing to a new way of life that reflects God’s will. This might involve breaking unhealthy habits, setting boundaries, or seeking accountability from trusted friends or mentors. Also, show a sincere desire for transformation. Listen to David’s prayer, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10).
• Asking for forgiveness is crucial to receiving God's forgiveness. At this point, we must ask forgiveness from God, from anyone we have offended in any way, and from yourself. Obviously, asking forgiveness from the Heavenly Father must be done through prayer. Asking others for forgiveness must be done face to face. If we have committed the sin of vengeance, regardless of how small the original slight, we must also forgive others for hurting us. This is a way of teaching humility, a cornerstone of the Christian faith. If we do not forgive others, we should not expect forgiveness from God.
• If we did wrong or made something wrong, we must try to set it right. Committing a sin can cause physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual damage that is difficult to rectify. If we cannot fix the problems caused by our actions, sincerely ask for forgiveness of those we have wronged.
• All power in Heaven and Earth has been given to Jesus. He alone is the one who can forgive our sins. In Isaiah 1:18 we have this wonderful promise “now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” We have the full revelation of Jesus, who “has appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself”
Dr Ashwin Drummond
Laddertoheaven.co.in