repentance

Romans 7:7 - 8:17; John 3:30

I always describe repentance to kids with the example of a skateboarder doing tricks. If you stand on your skateboard and turn it all the way around in a complete circle, what is that trick called? (The boys ALWAYS know.) It’s a “360.” And if you stand on the skateboard and turn it to face the opposite direction, what is that called? It’s a “180”.  And there you have the full extent of my knowledge of skateboard lingo; I have never done a 360 or 180 on a skateboard. My only memory of ever putting BOTH of my feet on a skateboard ends with me flat on my back with an instant headache. 

To repent is to do a 180, to turn and go in the opposite direction of our sin. In Greek, it literally means “to change your mind.” It’s not easy; many of us would rather perfect a skateboard trick than practice the act of repentance. All too often we end up turning in a full circle and going back to our sin, or we end up flat on the ground wondering what just happened. 

No one understood this better than Paul. When I read Romans 7, I am right there with him, grieving and frustrated over my constant failure to get it right. I want to do a 180 and go the other way! But, sometimes, I don’t. 

Thankfully, there is chapter 8! And God through his grace has offered us a way to live that’s not based on our flesh (our ability), but through His spirit within us. Read John 3:30 again and look for ways the Holy Spirit is working in your heart for Him to increase while you decrease. Set your mind on Him more and yourself less. Base your actions on His leading and not your desires. It won’t be easy, but it will change your mind, your heart, and your actions. Quit trying to “land the trick” on your own.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for loving me enough to allow me to ask for repentance. I know I am powerless to see real change in my life without you and I ask that you direct me into the paths of righteousness. 

-shelley farmer