12/03/2018
Many of the the young people who are in the Juvenile Rehabilitation Facility want their slate erased clean and to start all over again. I know that can seem impossible, especially when you're dealing with a difficult situation or the repercussions of bad choices. However, even if circumstances appear insurmountable or irreversible, especially when you're dealing with charges of breaking the law, Jesus Christ can give them hope, and a fresh start.
When the Lord said a person must be born again to see the kingdom of God, Nicodemus wondered how it was possible to go back in time for a second chance (John 3:3-4). But Jesus was talking about a new spiritual beginning, not a physical one (v. 6). As He explained later in that conversation, new birth comes through believing in Him for salvation (v. 16).
While receiving Christ occurs in a single moment, living by faith involved in obedience to Him. Whether you're coming to Jesus for salvation or approaching Him once more for cleansing from sin, He is faithful to grant forgiveness and the chance to begin again (1 John 2:9).
Starting over, however, doesn't erase your past. Circumstances may remain, but you have a brand-new nature because God's Spirit indwells you. He is able to take whatever is broken in your life, transform you to become increasingly like Jesus, and redeem your situation in accordance with His good purposes.
God offers us His wisdom to make right choices and His power to obey. I pray that as you read your Bible, and pray daily will encourage you to walk confidently in the newness of life Christ provides.
There are thousands of promises in the bible - countless assurances; which I call golden nuggets, that we can rely on with perfect confidence. God wants us to understand them so we won't miss out on blessings He wants to give us.
Yes, hardships will arise, and when they do, we need a sure foundation on which to stand. Otherwise, our emotions could easily lead us astray through faulty thinking. God is faithful and unchanging, so we can trust in His promises, which enable us to rest confidently and act boldly. Knowing our slate will be erased clean.
