If not for God's mercy I would be lost

In the course of my life the mistakes, pride, sin, incompetence, foolishness, wrongs, misdirected anger, willful ignorance, terrible attitudes, lack of wisdom and careless words have been many. To say I have fallen short is almost describing it in a way that is too kind.

“…[F]or all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…” Romans 3:23

I know Romans 3:23 to be true from firsthand experience. It is embarrassing.

If not for God’s mercy and grace, I would be lost. Thank you Lord for being compassionate to characters like me.

“The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.” Psalm 103:8

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

God has initiated everything when it comes to salvation

It’s important to keep in mind, God has already initiated everything when it comes to salvation. We do not make a first move by repenting or seeking His forgiveness. It’s not: First we repent. Then God, in His grace, responds with forgiveness.

He acted first. He loved us first.

Consider this: Jesus died for us while we were still sinners. (See Romans 5:8)

We do not make a first move in the process of establishing forgiveness, redemption and salvation. Our loving, gracious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has already made the first move.

Our repentance, confession and receiving of forgiveness and salvation is a response to God. He is first. Our repentance, confession and receiving of forgiveness and salvation is a response to who God is, to what He has done for us, and the grace He extends to us, in light of our recognition of our sin.

 

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

 

I know this will really come across as “Bible thumper” stuff to some folks. But I’m trying to throw someone a life preserver.

Helping others by giving assurance of God’s grace and mercy

 

Being responsible isn't easy but it is good and right.

A scriptural justification of this idea: You haven’t run out of chances with God.

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Sin Is A Sad Reality of Life... Fortunately, Though, Forgiveness Is Available

Sometimes people are disturbed by the Christian teaching of original sin which maintains that people are inherently sinful.  It’s true that this is indeed a sad and troubling reality, but it’s also important to remember that there is another important reality: Forgiveness is available.  “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1John 1:9