Today’s Encouragement is 2 Corinthians 7:10 ESV For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.
Without Regret –
Grief often describes our sorrow over the loss of a loved one, but it can also be attributed to shame and sorrow for sin, both apply here.
Notice his explanation… Godly grief – produces repentance (turning away from) which leads to salvation and freedom from regret. This is how God desires for us to express grief, remorse, and even shame for our sin… it is a recognition and turning away. And in this grief and sorrow… in God’s way… there is no regret… no lingering shame… no ongoing self-punishment for past sins… because we have been forgiven!
In contrast, ‘worldly grief produces death’! This is remaining ensconced in shame and sorrow for our sins, or for our loss. This is continuing to be enslaved by the grief, sorrow, or shame of the past.
The past has great potential to control our future. A terrible tragedy within our own control, a sin, or a tragic loss totally outside of our control… can produce a huge grey cloud of grief. This cloud can cover us for years even a lifetime, “Poor soul, he never recovered from it.”
My friends, God’s mercy is new every morning. (Lam 3:23) Our sins (all of them, past, present, and future) are removed as far as East is from West! (Ps 103:12) He promised he will remember them no more! (Heb 8:12)
Thank You Father that we are free from regret, shame, and sorrow. That we are new creations in Christ and free from the past to live with You today.
Let it fade
Jeremy Camp
Today’s Encouragement 