Topic: Proverbs 28:13 [John Hagee Devotional 12 March 2020]
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He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
When Jesus forgives our sin, it is a full pardon, a fresh start, and a new beginning. It is the lifting of a heavy burden and the canceling of an enormous debt.
Make no mistake though: forgiveness demands change. God’s forgiveness is filled with compassion, but it demands a change in our conduct. To forgive us without demanding a change in our conduct would make the grace of God an accomplice to evil.
When the Pharisees flung the adulterous woman at Jesus’ feet, they demanded a decision. They knew the Law of Moses called for her death by stoning. But Jesus knew what was in their hearts. After kneeling to write in the dust, He challenged: “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first” (John 8:7).
One by one, they dropped their stones and slunk away. They knew what was in their hearts too. Turning to the relieved woman, Jesus instructed, “Go and sin no more” (John 8:11). The point is clear. Jesus expected her to change.
Absolute grace that allows people to sin indefinitely and to still be in the favor of God is not a doctrine found in the Bible. When we confess and forsake our sins, we obtain mercy. Christ makes us new creatures, and He expects to see the change.
Blessing:
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. As the beloved child of God, imitate Christ. Walk in His love and forgiveness as you become more and more like Him.
Today’s Bible Reading:
Old Testament
Numbers 16:41-18:32
New Testament
Mark 16:1-20
Psalms & Proverbs
Psalm 55:1-23
Proverbs 11:7