Why Wait To Be Forgiven?

In the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word came to Jeremiah from the Lord: "Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah and all the other nations from the time I began speaking to you in the reign of Josiah till now. Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about every disaster I plan to inflict on them, they will each turn from their wicked ways; then I will forgive their wickedness and their sin.”
Jeremiah 36:1-3 (NIV)

Even when we are in sin God is gracious and calling out for us to repent so that he can forgive us. His purposes are not just about punishment. His desire is that he may forgive us and that we may enjoy his righteousness. Just don't confuse the conviction of the Spirit with the condemnation of the enemy. And don't misunderstand the mercy and patience of God for permissiveness. 

The deal is this: Why wait to repent? God is offering forgiveness. He wants to work graciously in your life. It's kind of like you are drowning in the ocean, surrounded by sharks, and wondering if you should take the life rope.  Take the rope. 

Father, thank you for your patience and forgiveness. Help us to repent. Praise be to you in us today!