31 Days of Repentance
By Monica Kritz
Mitchell County
Day 20: Forgive me for being manipulative and trying to get “my” way.
We want things to go “our” way, according to “our” plans and “our” time. When they don’t, we get frustrated and attempt to force things, people, and situations into “our” own agenda. But there is a sin that is not as obvious as forcefully doing “my” will and kicking doors open. It is called manipulation, and it is still a sin. The definition for “manipulate” in Webster’s dictionary is: “To handle or manage shrewdly and deviously for one’s own profit.” When you read that definition, it shines a light on what may be viewed as a “little” sin. But GOD’s Word does not call sin “big” or “little.” Sin is sin. All of it put JESUS on the cross.
Do you give hints, when you want someone to do something? Do you carefully word your sentences so that it sounds like you are concerned, but really it is for your own benefit? Recognize now if you do these things. It is manipulation, no matter how subtle. If we truly want to repent, then we need to be honest with ourselves. It is not always easy or pleasant, but the reward of getting clean with GOD is priceless! It is important if we are to grow in our daily walk with GOD. The benefits of repentance far outweigh the temporary hurt and pain. Some benefits include having peace and joy that cannot be taken away, growth into maturity, and freedom to live and do what CHRIST would have us to do.
As CHRISTians, we have THE HOLY SPIRIT to guide us. We know when we do something wrong or questionable, but we push aside HIS nudging because we don’t want to deal with it. If we continue to ignore HIS conviction, we grow colder and colder in our hearts. Instead, let us be thankful that HE does convict us and point out where we need to make a change. Then, let’s be quick to repent – tell GOD that we are sorry and don’t want to repeat that sin, asking for HIS forgiveness. When we are faithful to confess our sins, HE is faithful to forgive us!
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
Challenge:
* Write down Psalm 51:10-13. Pay close attention to verse 13 and notice the benefits of repentance.
* Read 2 Chronicles 18. Notice verses 28-34. Ahab, king of Israel tried to “manipulate” the situation to his favor, but what happened to him?
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Jason and Monica Henley-Kritz live in the beautiful mountains of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, nestled near the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Jason is the owner of Joyful Noise Vintage Audio & Electronics, where he repairs, rebuilds and restores vintage electronics. Monica is the owner of Monica’s Music Studio, where she teaches piano and music theory lessons. Jason and Monica were married in 2007, and they give GOD all the glory for any accomplishments in their lives.
Contact Monica with questions about the books or to order hard copies.
Email: monicasmusicstudio@gmail.com
Phone: 1 828 765 8789 ( Leave a message )
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