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Tribune Content Agency
How can God forgive me when I can’t forgive myself?Dec 15, 2018 |
| From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: After decades of legalized abortion, it is still a huge topic of discussion in our society. It often headlines the news. This pro-life and pro-choice drama intensifies. I had an abortion some years ago and felt no guilt at the moment. But since that time the anxiety from my decision grows within and I hate myself. How can God forgive me when I can’t forgive myself? — A.A. A: God’s forgiveness for us is not conditional on our forgiving ourselves. The Bible says “that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). This means that even before we were interested in repenting and asking God to forgive us of our sins, God had already taken the initiative. God’s desire is to forgive us, but we must repent and admit our sin before the Lord. He knows you better than you know yourself. We must trust Him to turn us from despair and guilt. He wants to show us how we can be witnesses for Him by encouraging others to consider the love and forgiveness of the Lord Jesus. He is patiently waiting to welcome souls into His tender and loving care. Think for a moment how wonderful it would be to go to bed every night and know beyond doubt that God has forgiven every sin you had ever committed. This can be your experience because God loves you and is ready to forgive and receive you. He has already done everything necessary to bring you to complete forgiveness. Flee from Satan, who wants to keep you wallowing in your indecision, and trust Christ to give you peace in your heart. ======== (This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.) (c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC. |
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