From Mess to Mercy: Embracing the Power of Forgiveness

Embracing forgivene

Remember You’ve Been Forgiven: Your Story Isn't Over

Let’s be real. How many of you have a “BC” story—Before Christ? You know, that phase in life where you thought you had it all together, but in hindsight, you're left wondering, “What in the world was I doing?”

It's like when people say, “I was living my best life,” and all you can think is, “No, I was living my messiest life!” Before Christ, we were like spiritual toddlers—clumsy, confused, reaching for everything we shouldn’t. We convinced ourselves we knew what was best, but looking back, we were lost, wandering in circles, trying to fill voids that only God could fill.

But here’s the beauty: that BC version of you? God didn’t leave you there. You’ve now stepped into your AD—After Deliverance. You can look back at the chaos and, instead of being ashamed, praise God for pulling you through it all.

God’s Grace: Wiping the Slate Clean

Psalm 103:10-12 reminds us of something incredibly powerful:

“He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.”

Isn’t that beautiful? God doesn’t keep a tally of our mess-ups. He doesn’t hold our past against us. In fact, He separates us from our sins as far as the east is from the west! His forgiveness isn’t earned by anything we’ve done; it’s a pure, undeserved gift.

Forgiveness is a Gift—Not a Reward

Let’s be clear: God didn’t forgive you because you deserved it. It wasn’t because you were top of your class, came from a family of devoted Christians, or because you’ve been financially generous. Forgiveness wasn’t based on your charitable work or anything you’ve accomplished. It wasn’t about how much you gave, how you served, or how faithful you appeared.

No, forgiveness isn’t earned. You can’t work your way into God’s grace. It’s a gift—completely undeserved, freely given. Say that out loud: “It is a gift!”

When you remember this, it fills your heart with joy, not shame. You’re no longer defined by your past mistakes. Instead, you can rejoice in the Savior who has made you new.

Taking Time to Thank Jesus for His Forgiveness

Here’s a little challenge: Every now and then, take a moment to thank Jesus specifically for what He has forgiven in your life. Reflect on the times you’ve messed up, the moments when you felt far from Him, and realize how He wiped your slate clean.

Think about the times when you’ve lied or acted out of greed. Consider the moments when bitterness ruled your heart, when you placed things or people ahead of God, or when you made decisions that separated you from His will. And then, remember those times when your thoughts were filled with unbelief, pride, envy, or lust.

The list could go on, couldn’t it? But instead of dwelling on those mistakes, thank Jesus for forgiving you, even when you didn’t deserve it. He is holy, compassionate, merciful, and loving. Who else could be so marvelous and still so kind? When you remember how much you’ve been forgiven, it should stir up praise like never before.

Psalm 77:11-12 says:

“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work and meditate on your mighty deeds.”

When you reflect on what God has done for you, especially His forgiveness, it fills your heart with gratitude and awe.

Forgiveness Empowers Us to Forgive Others

Here’s another important truth: when you truly grasp the magnitude of God’s forgiveness toward you, it changes the way you forgive others.

Colossians 3:13 reminds us:

“Bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgive each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”

If you’ve been forgiven, you are called to extend that grace to others. So, the next time you feel a grudge building up, pause. Remember how you’ve been forgiven, and let that grace overflow to those around you.

In Christ, your BC story—Before Christ—is over. Your AD—After Deliverance—has begun. So walk in freedom, joy, and grace, because you are forgiven. And that changes everything.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Thanks for reading. You can get more actionable support for your family in my popular email newsletter. Each week, I share a Family Guide that includes 1 worship song, 1 Bible verse, questions to spark healthy family conversations and a family prayer that will help your family grow in the Lord and in unity. Over 1,000 families subscribe. Enter your email now and join us.

Try the Free Family Guide