(June 28, 2009)

Many people carry a burden of needing to forgive. However, most often these people can forgive others without a problem. Their problem is the lack of ability to forgive themselves.

Many try to go through their life trying to earn their salvation. At the end, they will realize that it was a gift. Some will complain that they can't live up to God's standard. They believe that God is mean, so they live a life like hell on earth. The third group takes the test anyway. They cannot accept God's forgiveness because of their own pride and ego. Sorry...it's only receiving the gift that God has for us that will get you a 'pass'.

When Adam & Eve failed, our fellowship with God was destroyed. Also, death entered the human family. Things happen on earth as a result of The Fall. God never intended it to be that way. The good news is that the gift is a delayed judgement. We have an opportunity throughout our lives to 'sign our names' and find our spot in Heaven. When we die, judgement comes, not during our lives. What a gift! Jesus took our judgement!

God is the same as He was then as he is now as he forever will be. God doesn't change, he changes us. At times, we work to mold God to our specifications, but He will not change.

At the end of each presidential term, our Commander-in-Chief makes pardons over their last days in office. It doesn't mean that those people are now innocent, it just means that they don't have to pay the price. However, regarding forgiveness from God, He doesn't just pardon you; He says that your debt is paid.

The fact is that one act by God changes everything. You can have eternal life. The Blood of Jesus is just as good today as it ever was. We have Jesus and He's done so much for us. Quit trying to do your best and just accept forgiveness...you cannot earn it and do it on your own. Simply receive what God has done for you. In religion, you have to 'do' to earn your spot. However, if you accept Christ, it is 'done'.

- Jon Bruney
(Credit to Charles Stanley & John Maxwell)