Foundations Devotional: Week 3, Day 3
Day 3 – Repentance in the Believer’s Life
When we are truly grieved by our sin, God cleanses our heart and provides the power to change.
Proverbs 28:13-14
Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper,
but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
14 Blessed is the one who always trembles before God,
but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble.
Is repentance necessary in the Christian’s life? Yes, and we can see this truth in 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” You may say, “The word repentance isn’t in that verse.” But let’s take a closer look.
Remember, “to repent” simply means to change your mind. For non- Christians, this refers to saving faith—the decision to place trust in Jesus.
But for believers, repentance involves a change of heart with regard to behavior or attitude. It is an ongoing decision to lead an obedient, Christlike life.
In 1 John, this choice is represented by the word confess, which means “to agree with.” In other words, if you confess your wrongdoing to God, you are coming into agreement with Him about that sin and therefore disagreeing with your previous view. Here, confession isn’t a matter of salvation; rather, it means allowing the Father to continually re-form your mind, molding you more and more into the image of His Son.
As God continues to work in your life, your mind will gradually reject old thought patterns, and you’ll more closely represent His way of thinking. Is there sin in your life that has become too uncomfortable to bear? Confess it and allow God to change your heart today.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
I come before You with a heart that desires to be more like Jesus. I acknowledge that I have fallen short in many ways, and I ask for Your forgiveness. Lord, I don’t want to hide my sins or hold onto them. Help me to be honest with You and with myself, confessing those things that are displeasing to You.
I know that repentance is not just about saying I’m sorry, but about changing my heart and mind to align with Your will. So, I ask for Your strength and grace to truly turn away from my sinful thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Mold me, Father, into the image of Jesus.
Lord, I trust that as I confess and surrender to You, You will continue to renew my mind and transform me by Your Spirit.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.