2 Corinthians 7:10
In fact, godly sorrow produces repentance, which leads to salvation, leaving no regret. On the other hand, worldly sorrow produces death.
Dear Heavenly Father,
No one enjoys the guilt, shame, or regret that follows after we’ve done something wrong. The hurtful things we think, say, and do can create issues with those close to us while our conscience prods us about our actions. For those who do not know or trust in You, these actions can also lead to further problems or make people cold and callous. Worldly sorrow, as Paul stated, produces death. Without Jesus’ forgiveness, sins drive us further away from You, leading to eternal death.
True faith in You is always accompanied by repentance that leads to forgiveness. As Paul wrote, “In fact, godly sorrow produces repentance.” Trusting in You means trusting Your Son, who endured the cross and forgave all our sins. Therefore, godly sorrow signifies that when we commit unkind acts, harbor negative thoughts, and express unloving words, we can turn to Christ, lay our transgressions at His feet, and confidently know we are forgiven for every sin. This leads to salvation because the sins that separated us from You are removed forever. With them gone, we are restored to You, and You grant us the gift of salvation and eternal life.
Therefore, in the forgiveness granted to us and out of love for You, may we also forgive those around us. We pray to share Paul’s message about godly sorrow with those who do not know You so they, too, may learn of Your forgiveness through Jesus. May they trust in Him and experience a godly sorrow connected to faith that leads to salvation and eternal life. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
No one likes to be sad, but when that sadness leads us to ask for forgiveness from God, it is turned into rejoicing, knowing with certainty that salvation and eternal life are ours in Jesus.