Repentance is when one is truly sorry for a wrong action. Sincere repentance causes one to change their sinful direction. Genuine regret will facilitate a move towards Godly direction. It does not mean to say you are sorry then commence to repeat or express the same previous behavior. One must not confuse repentance with guilt.

What Is Repentance?

Repentance is when one is truly sorry for a wrong action. Sincere repentance causes one to change their sinful direction. Genuine regret will facilitate a move towards Godly direction. It does not mean to say you are sorry then commence to repeat or express the same previous behavior. One must not confuse repentance with guilt. Oftentimes when one’s sinful behavior is exposed or they become self-conscious of wrongful behavior they will experience conflict. To alleviate their discomfort they may say "I’m sorry". Saying sorry releases the immediate pressure. Don’t let sorry become a sorry meaningless word. True repentance impacts one to the point that the desire to modify their actions overrides the once prescribed behavior.

When one has compulsive behaviors their ability to relinquish such behavior may not immediately manifest. But admitting to oneself that their behavior needs modification is a favorable inception. The process to extinguish compulsive behaviors can sometimes be lengthy. However, the benefits yield self-control. Self- examination is a prerequisite on the road to recovery. Remember nothing is impossible with God.

When we become aware of behaviors that don’t produce the fruits of the spirit we should be thankful. Remember God is a spirit of truth. His truth will constantly allow us to see the folly of our ways. When we read and digest the scriptures it will promote spiritual growth. Spiritual growth will enlighten your perspective.

The old nature within us is enmeshed with a faulty response system. We must repattern our responses by fostering an internal environment which invites the infilling presence of the Holy Spirit. The new nature can arrest the old nature. Remember the power of God is stronger than anything! God’s power is unlimited. We never become the power but as His children we have access to it.

We are called to be disciples of Jesus Christ. A disciple is a learner. Disciples must exercise discipline. Remember a fool speaks his whole mind. We should be slow to speak, quick to hear and slow to anger. God has given us His written WORD and His internal COMFORTER to lead guide and direct each of His children. Whenever we find ourselves in err we should welcome a repentant spirit. Our desire should not let pride nor man’s opinion prohibit humility. John the Baptist constantly preached repentance! Repent! For the kingdom of God is at hand. We have been thoroughly conditioned to respond in fashions that actually hinder our spiritual development. We can be consumed by what others think or how it appears rather than what God knows.

Never sacrifice inner peace for exterior acceptance. Don’t allow others to control you by remote. When they try to provoke you to anger don’t get pulled in. When they hurl insults don’t engage in verbal combat. Let self-control intercede. Wait and respond when and if you feel it’s necessary. Just let them feel the impact of their own tongue. There are many things that won’t be understood on this side of heaven. Just remember God knows your heart. The spiritual armor must become a habitual attire.

Our purpose is to please and Worship God. Worship does not only exist between 11:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m. on Sunday morning. The true worshippers must worship Him in spirit and in truth. We should live a life of worship. We do this by acknowledging His authority in our life and being obedient to His WORD. We should encourage others to embrace the scriptures and accept Jesus as their personal Savior. Let’s be about our Father’s business. Repent! Repent! The Kingdom of God is at hand!

The truly repentant soul has an innate inclination to please God after one experiences salvation. Priorities yield to inner peace and contentment. To compromise and join the way of the majority looses its intimidation. Jude encourages us to pluck others from the fire. Satan is such a deceiver. His deception allows tradition, superstitions and old wise fables to parade themselves as the WORD of God. When you study and show yourself approved to GOD it will allow you to discern and properly navigate through the deception. Don’t be fooled like the Pharisees; be schooled by the scriptures and lead by the Holy Spirit. Repent the kingdom of God is at hand!!!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DeBorrah K. Ogans is a Christian Pastoral Counselor and ordained minister. She and her husband Randall Sr. founded ALPHA 7 MINISTRIES. She is certified through the Sarasota Academy of Christian Counseling in Creation Therapy and holds a Master’s Degree in Biblical Clinical Counseling. She is the author of a pre-marital guide “How Do I Love Thee: Things You Need To Know Before You Say I Do”, and just released her second book "Holy Matrimony: Now That You're Married".