CWW Week 3 - Day 7 - Repentance

Scripture

In Matthew 3:8, John the Baptist delivers a powerful message to the crowds who came to him for baptism: “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance.”

Devotional

 This concise statement encapsulates the essence of true repentance and its transformative impact on our lives.

I find myself repenting in my mind dozens of times a day. When I am mowing the grass deep in thoughts, or doing a broadcast with my mate John Larter when I say something inappropriate. It sharpens me and it’s a way I invite the Holy Spirit to hold me to account and refine my character.

When I do that, and now it’s subconscious, I find myself replacing those thoughts with the fruits of the Spirit.

The fruits of the Spirit are outlined in the Bible in Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.”

More on this subject later.

The truth is that by repenting as a daily commitment takes place in your life ,you just have a better day and who loses?

Repentance isn’t merely a one-time event or a feeling of remorse; it’s a lifestyle characterised by a genuine change of heart and behaviour. John challenges the people not only to express their repentance verbally but also to demonstrate it through the fruits they bear. These fruits are the visible evidence of an inward transformation—a life marked by righteousness, love, and obedience to God.

Reflection Questions:

• How does the concept of “bearing fruits worthy of repentance” challenge your understanding of repentance as a lifestyle?
• Reflect on the fruits of repentance evident in your life. In what areas do you see evidence of genuine change and growth?
• What practical steps can you take to cultivate and nurture the fruits of repentance in your daily walk with God.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, Papa God, 

We thank You for the gift of repentance and the opportunity to experience Your transforming grace. Help us to bear fruits worthy of repentance, reflecting Your righteousness and love to the world around us. Grant us the strength and wisdom to live lives that honour You in every way. May our actions and attitudes be pleasing in Your sight, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a great day with Jesus.

Graham Hood.