“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, Who hath enabled me, for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 1:12-14).

The last few days we have spoken about believers who confess their sins to the Lord and live in one of two ways. Those who believe the Bible and rejoice in being forgiven are like runners in the race who drop anything that is unnecessary. They keep looking ahead, ever mindful of the finish line which they anticipate with joy and gladness. On the other hand there are believers who even though they have been graciously forgiven of the Lord are like runners who carry an umbrella, picnic basket, change of clothes, a skateboard, golf bag, and a carry-out lunch from McDonalds! They are encumbered with carrying about the guilt and shame of the past. That was how Elmer lived until he was counseled by Pastor Kenward. Pastor read Philippians 3:13 to him and explained that the word “forgetting” means to drop it and not hang on to it. He explained that Paul hadn’t blanked his past from his mind (1 Timothy 1:12-14); however, he didn’t live in defeat and guilt either (Philippians 3:14). How is it with you? If you are a believer and have confessed your sins to the Lord, live in the joy of His glorious forgiveness. Don’t be a runner carrying unnecessary guilt and shame.

For today: Take the Lord at His Word. Believe the promise of 1 John 1:9.