As a pastor I hear all kinds of things.  If I have heard it once I have heard it a thousand times: “How could God ever forgive me for what I have done?”  or something similar to that.  I don’t know about you but am I from another planet when I say that we all have something or some things we regret?  Am I an alien when I say that probably most of us have a closet door that we would just as soon no one open?  I realize why people say those words or something like them.  We tend to think that we (1) either stand alone or (2) have done something soooooo bad that there is no way God could forgive us.  It could be an abortion or a late night caper or a bold-faced lie that got someone else in trouble or adultery or a silent addiction (like porn or alcohol) or cheating on an exam or (fill in the blank).   I suspect that most, if not all of us, can echo the sentiments of failure and feeling like we could never be forgiven.  We are paralyzed by our past.

And as much as I know we can be paralyzed, I am doubly sure about one more thing: God’s grace that covers that sin and gives us a second chance.  We don’t have to be paralyzed with our secrets and regrets.  Now…I didn’t say we won’t have to live with the consequences that may come but I am also sure that Paul knew what he was talking about when he said, “Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” [Rom.5:20-21] (ESV)  Paul goes on in chapter six to talk about sinning so God’s grace may abound and rules that out.   He also says, “For one who has died has been set free from sin.” [6:7] That includes second chances.  Messing up is a certainty.  Feeling guilty is a necessity (to bring us to repentance).  Wallowing in the guilt is unnecessary (thanks to God’s grace and forgiveness).

Are you paralyzed by your past?  Have you done something that maybe only God knows and it just keeps coming back to haunt you?  God is a God of second chances.  Accept that today and live free.  I would love to hear from you if you care to share your thoughts.  I will accept anonymous responses for this one if you prefer to do that. Meanwhile, I have included a song from Pillar’s new album that has ministered to me.  Hope you enjoy it.