Forgiveness

Over the past few days, I have been dwelling in a part of my past where I truly don't need to go. But I went there, anyway.

Not only did I choose to revisit it, but I also decided to take it into my own hands and attempt to handle it independently.

The result? I ended up making decisions about it that went against what God would have me do. Not just once, but three times. Yes, three times.

I immediately began discussing it with the Lord while feeling guilty for my choices. I started wondering what was wrong with me when I know better than that.

Yesterday evening, I took my normal walk in my neighborhood. The sun was setting along South Boulevard, as usual. I was admiring the majesty of it and suddenly, I saw a large flock of birds - perhaps 75 or 100 - flying over me toward the sunset. I thought, wow, that was cool.

I walked in the same direction for another five minutes or so, and I then saw another flock of birds. Same type of birds, approximately the same amount, also flying toward the peaceful sunset. I thought, wow, that was cool, Lord...thanks for letting me see those.

I continued for another five minutes, and I looked up to see yet another flock just like the other two, making their way into the beautiful sunset. Suddenly, it hit me. "Okay, Lord...this is cool but why did I just see that same thing three times? Why did You do that?"

Immediately, I felt Him speak to my spirit. "Angi, remember when Peter denied me three times?"

I could feel the tears begin to form in my eyes. He continued.

"And remember when I asked Him if he loved me three times, in order that I should forgive his three denials of me?"

"Yes, Lord!" I replied.

"Well, there you go." And without hesitation, I knew that I was pardoned for the three wrong choices I had made...right then, and right there. The peace that came over me as the evening progressed was indescribable. It was like I could feel Him saying, "You're forgiven. Now don't let that happen again!"

This morning, while writing this, the Holy Spirit reminded me of a perfect Scripture to illustrate this story. "If we freely admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins (dismiss our lawlessness) and (continuously) cleanse us from all unrighteousness (everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action.)" - 1 John 1:9

Bring it all to Him, and He'll wipe your slate clean if you are honest with Him about what you have done. He understands you completely in a way that no one else ever can or will! Jesus rocks!