The kingdom will be the Lord’s. (Obad. 21)
IN A MOMENT OF RASH STUPIDITY, a young man named Darrell punched the social worker that was handling his case. The judge threw the book at him and gave him ten years in jail. Darrell’s parents were devastated and didn’t know where to turn. One of the members of their congregation worked for the Department of Corrections and promised to keep an eye on their son. With this person’s help, Darrell got involved in the prison’s Bible studies and started getting the help he needed.
Pride proved to be the downfall of Edom. In just a short period of time, it was reduced to rubble. Israel’s list of sins was just as long. However, a remnant would repent and turn their hearts back to God. And even though they might suffer the consequences of their disobedience, the Lord would restore them once again.
Legitimate guilt does not need to last more than a moment. Once we’ve become aware of our sin, if we confess and own up to full responsibility for our harmful behavior, God is ready to forgive and restore. And even though we may have to live with the consequences of our actions, that eventuality will happen in the context of God’s kindness and grace.
Confess your sins and experience God’s compassion.
Doug Schmidt is a freelance writer and editor; he is also on staff with his church as the small-groups director.
