The California Collection/TheCaliforniaCollection.cdr/his091/pastsins.lzh/PASTSINS.TXT

Text File | 1991-07-09 | 2KB | 39 lines

INS:The Memory of Past Sins

   Inspiration Read Genesis 45:1-13

   The Memory of Past Sins

   ..do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves. Genesis 45:5

   The memory of past sins robs many Christians of the joy of
salvation. We've all met believers who keep saying, "If only I could
forgive myself for what I have done!" With them, normal regret turns
into an obsession in which they must keep blaming themselves.

   When Joseph revealed himself to his brothers who had sold him into
slavery, they were speechless and "dismayed in his presence." Fear and
guilt quickly reminded them of the heartache they had caused their aged
father Jacob as well as their brother. Joseph, sensing what was going
on in their hearts, immediately reassured them before the seeds of
self-blame could take root. He said, "...do not therefore be grieved
nor angry with yourselves because you sold me here."

   When we sin and hurt others, we too find ourselves in a position
similar to that of Joseph's brothers. It's then that the Holy spirit
reminds us of the price Jesus paid for our offenses on the cross. He
says, in effect,"Don't be grieved or angry with yourselves."

   If you are a Christian who tends to keep blaming yourself after you
have acknowledged your sins to God, think about what you are doing. You
are keeping their memory alive by your anger at yourself. To overcome
this, you must be "renewed in the spirit of your mind"(Eph.4:23) by
focusing on the Savior, not on your sin. Think about what He has done,
not what you have done. Because Jesus remits your sin, you can "forget"
your sin. -D.J.D.

   Blessed be the name of Jesus! I'm so glad He took me in; He's
forgiven my transgressions, He has cleansed my heart from sin.

   GUILT IS A BURDEN GOD NEVER INTENDED HIS CHILDREN TO BEAR....