Repentance and Rejoicing

Chuckle: "You're just jealous because the voices I hear only talk to me!"

Good Quote: “That great word repentance has five 'r’s': 1) recognition, 2) remorse, 3) resolution, 4) restitution, and 5) reformation.” –Unknown Source

A few years back, I received these reflections on this verse from Suzanne Hanna. I have been so blessed by her insightful words that I want to share them with you.

"I tell you, "There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance" (Luke 15:7 NAB).

Jesus gives us a wonderful image of what happens when we come to Him with a repentant heart. Not only will there be joy in heaven, but verse 10 goes on to tell us that “there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Wow!

How often does the enemy of our souls deceive us into thinking that we cannot come to God with our sins, for if we do, we will be judged harshly and condemned. That is a lie from the pit of hell. The devil knows that if we hold on to our mistakes, every hurt we’ve experienced, every offense, every wrong decision we’ve made that has led us away from God, he knows that they will eventually become toxic to our bodies, and sooner or later will effect our physical health.

God is love, and is waiting for us, in love, to take every mistake, every hurt & offense that we have chosen to hold on to, every wrong decision we’ve made, to Him. If we hang on to those things, over time, they become like poison in our spirit, mind, soul and body, and can begin to effect our physical health. God waits for us to come to Him with a heart of repentance and when we do, a celebration in heaven takes place ... and healing begins!

God knew we were not perfect, and that’s why He sent His Son ... to SAVE US! Jesus came for the sick, not the healthy. Remember, the devil wants to accuse and condemn, but there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus! So, today, if you find yourself oppressed and feel like you are carrying an unbearable load, burdens that the Lord never intended for you to carry ... burdens of guilt, shame, unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, etc., bring them to the Lord with a repentant heart today. He is faithful to forgive. Let it all go, so the healing and restoration can begin!

A celebration awaits, and if you listen carefully, you may overhear the sounds of angels rejoicing over YOU in heaven!

Love, Jerry & Dotse