Get Back Up

'This is what the Lord says: When people fall down, don't they get up again? When they start down the wrong road and discover their mistake, don't they turn back?' - Jeremiah 8:4
Each of us have made mistakes in life. It is not a question of if we will, it is a question of what will we learn from them. The mistakes of our past become the foundation for our future. The real question is, are you repeating the same mistake over and over or turning away in growth.

I often pondered the individual act of authentic repentance. If a person falls to his/her knees with their arms raised and heart open seeking the forgiveness from their Creator, yet rises and continues to do the same action that brought them to their knees, have they truly been repentant? What is it inside each of us that finally triggers a reaction of repentance? Falling down is human nature. Life is filled with situations and circumstances that result in a conditioned response that may be far outside of the bounds of the righteous path that leads to heaven. Yet, God's word is clear - "..get up again", but don't miss the second (and more important) part "...turn back.". A truly repentant heart (Greek: (noun) metanoia) turns away from the mistakes (sins) that brought them to their knees and pursues a new path.

Recognizing mistakes and learning from them is essential to walking the path God has set before you. Many believe God's grace for their salvation, and then expect that from that point forward their works will be the determination of God's acceptance. If we believe that our salvation can only come from grace and not by works, than we must also agree that our works are insufficient to maintain our salvation. God's grace is the only thing that will sustain your life in Christ, and through the Holy Spirit within each of us is our weakness made whole. We learn in 2 Corinthians 12:9 "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.", that God's grace is strengthened through our weakness. It's not a question of God's grace, but rather a statement of the heart of the individual seeking that grace. Face it, you will sin again; and it should not be considered hypocritical to do so; but staying in that position of sin is. Fill your mind with the word of God, focus on HIs ways and allow the Holy Spirit to draw you from your weakness. Be blessed today through the comfort of God's sufficient grace.

Prayer:

Almighty God,

You have given us Your word and in it rich promises of grace, strength, courage, wisdom, salvation, redemption and hope for our future. We trust that in all things Your promise is true and that we are redeemed through Your Son Jesus Christ - Amen

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