Wilberforce wrote the following about those who were not able to see the sinfulness—the inhumanity of the Slave Trade: “You may choose to look the other way but you can never say again that you did not know.”

Let’s look at what dealing with sin looks like in our personal lives.

Years ago, when I was still driving, I was pulled over after going through a school zone. The officer asked me, “Did you know what your speed was?” I didn’t.

When he told me I’d been going too fast, all I could say was, “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize it. I’ll try not to do that again.”

I was lucky. I didn’t get a ticket. The officer forgave me.

How would you have responded in such a situation? I can’t see another way. Though my husband did laugh when I told him about my promise not to do it again.

Imagine if the world were filled with individuals who willingly apologized and accepted apologies! So many problems could be solved…and with humility. Think of the peace!

If we didn’t surrender to God in repentance with a desire to change, we might feel tempted to keep doing wrong again and again. That’s not what God had in mind when he offered his forgiveness.

Take ownership of the wrong you have done. Talk to God and ask him to release you from the guilt it brings.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

 

This has been Part 12 of the Series  A LIFE WORTH LIVING. Read Part 13 – The Industrial Revolution and Dickens