2 Timothy 3:13-14
“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
When God’s Word says our sins are forgiven, does that mean we are free or do we carry the terrible burden of sin with us? I fear that there are many who actually receive God’s forgiveness but fail to recognize that He not only forgives — He also cleanses. Read I John 1:9.
Let’s consider a sinner that was introduced in the book of Joshua. If we were to use an investigative technique, here is what we would find: Name: Rahab. Address: Jericho. Occupation: Prostitute. That is all of the information we know about this woman of the night.
How ironic that 40 years earlier after being freed from the bondage of slavery, Moses had sent out twelve spies. Only two had returned with a positive report and urged them to go in immediately to possess the land God had given them. One of the spies was Joshua, the other was Caleb. Now, 40 years later, Joshua sends out only two spies.
Rahab and her family were spared when Israel defeated Jericho. She did not look back on her sordid past . She took a risk to save the Israelites and God blessed her for it. In Hebrews 11:31 she is mentioned along with the faithful of the ages. In James 2:25 and 26 she is considered righteous in the eyes of God.
Now, that brings us to the practical aspects of the forgiveness of sins in our lives. When we confess our sins we can begin to live as new creatures. It is certainly not God who brings your sins of the past to your mind and causes you turmoil. If it is not the Lord, it is coming from the other side, and that means Satan.
In the same manner you can have victory over the sins in your past. If you have confessed and repented of them, you are made clean by the blood of the Lamb. Any time Satan brings them to your mind and wants you to feel defeated for what you did, or were, don’t believe him. Choose to praise the Lord for His cleansing
In the same manner, you can have victory over the sins in your past. If you have confessed and repented of them, you are made clean by the blood of the Lamb. Any time Satan brings them to your mind and wants you to feel defeated for what you did, or were, don’t believe him. Choose to praise the Lord for His cleansing power over sin and death. Give Him the glory and receive His grace that is sufficient to cover the sins that we have confessed.
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil