Who needs forgiveness? Does my past really matter? Does your past really matter? Can we not just do what we want?

 

In most countries there are laws about how to live. Codes of conduct are essential, even for the smooth running of schools and businesses.

 

If we live or work somewhere we can expect to be governed by that country’s or company’s code, or face the consequences. Why then would it be any different in the world?

 

It’s Gods world. He made it. He made us. He knows what is best for His creation.

 

People often try to turn their lives around, or live ‘good’ lives, but they seem to forget about or overlook their past. The Bible reminds us that as God is just, 'He cannot ignore our past' (Ecclesiastes 3 verse 15).

 

If a country or a judge was to ignore crime, and allow it to go unpunished, there would be outcry, and even if we did not speak out we would be annoyed at the injustice. If God is to be just (and He is) then He must punish our sin.

 

The great marvel is that the God who remembers our past, 'who finds us guilty' (Romans 3) and who is just, is the one who can offer forgiveness. This forgiveness was provided because the God of love knew we were helpless. Romans 5 tells us that 'while we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for us'. The Bible tells us in Romans 6 verse 23 that 'the wages of sin is death' and this is what the Lord Jesus bore that we might be forgiven. He had 'no sin of His own but died for our sins' and makes forgiveness available.

    

The question is will you receive such forgiveness from the hand of God. What will you do with Jesus Christ?  He wants to forgive and those who receive forgiveness can say;  

              

Pardon from an offended God

Pardon from sins of deepest dye

Pardon bestowed through Jesus Blood

Pardon that brings the sinner nigh