Where All Repentance Begins

God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Saviour, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.

Acts 5:31

God says that He “gives” repentance. You say, “Isn’t repentance our responsibility?” Yes, but it is God’s grace that makes it possible.

That’s why David says, “Search me, O God, and know my heart!… See if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Psa. 139:23-24). Lord, you have to show me what’s wrong in my life, otherwise I won’t even see it. Lord, you have to lead me in the way everlasting, otherwise I won’t even find it. It’s God’s grace that makes repentance possible.

There is a deep-seated rebellion toward God in the human heart that only grace can heal. The inclination to repent comes when the Holy Spirit shows you the extent of your own sin. The courage to repent comes when the Holy Spirit shows you the extent of Christ’s love.

You cannot repent if you harden your heart against God. The prodigal son will never return home as long as he is filled with resentment toward the father. That’s the thing that has to change. When the son came to his senses he said, “I will… go to my father” (Lk. 15:18). That’s where repentance begins, not with seeking repentance, but with seeking God.

Esau never found repentance, but you could make a different choice today. Jesus Christ is at the right hand of God the Father that He might give repentance and the forgiveness of sins. Come to Him today: “Father, thank you for making real and lasting change possible for me. Thank you for placing this desire in my heart. Thank you for your love in Christ that draws me on this path.”

*Are you willing to make this prayer your own today?*