Have you ever heard someone say they were sorry and you knew they really were just sorry they got caught? Of course, we've all been on both sides of that situation. I have been in education for a few years and dealt with kids who were "sorry" a zillion times. The classic and most difficult is the kid who says they are sorry, it won't happen again and then, 20 seconds latter, they are hitting someone, stealing something or just wreaking havoc on a classroom. Because they are not really sorry.
II Corinthians 7:10 says, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death."
Notice the difference: Godly sorrow produces repentance that leads to salvation while worldly sorrow is unchanged and brings death. The key is repentance. To repent means to change directions, do a 180 degree turn. Paul went on to describe the Corinthians actions that were evidence of repentance (II Corinthians 7:11). He noted their earnestness and eagerness to clear themselves, their indignation and alarm, longing, concern and readiness to see justice done. They repented by doing the right thing. What is wonderful about Godly sorrow and repentance is that it leads to salvation and leaves no regret. After I do something wrong, I often regret that I did it. Godly repentance leaves you free of even that regret. That is amazing grace!
Father, thank you for Your amazing grace that allows us to repent and enjoy the fruits of salvation. Help us to repent in action which is true repentance. Praise be to You in us today!
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