A word that is these days seldom or never heard. It is used so seldom that some “Christians” don’t even know the meaning anymore.
Repent is translated from the Greek word μετανοεω metanoeo (met-an-o-eh’-o) The literal meaning of this word is “to think differently” or “to think afterwards”, i.e. reconsider (morally, feel compunction)
It is calling on us to not only change our mind, but also to change our heart, our way of life, our words, and our actions.
Actually to become completely different from what we were before. To leave the old sinful way of living behind us, and start anew with the Christ.
Such a complete change can only be realized when God is working this out in our life.
Though we hear it seldom these days, in Matthew 4:17 we read that Jesus began to preach with this word saying “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”
This shows us how important repentance is in the eyes of Jesus. He began with it.
This shows us also that without repentance we cannot be ready for His Kingdom when it comes.
This brings me to the question “When have you cried for the last time over your sins?”
Cried because you hate sin, because you hate to hurt your Father with your sin?
How often I see people asking for forgiveness, in the same way as they say sorry after they bumped into someone at the supermarket. That is not repentance!
Christians everywhere, that is the church, need to repent from all things that were done wrong, that were done against the will of God.
If they do not, they will not be ready for the Kingdom when it comes.
Repent, believe, and follow the Christ.
Be sure that you are ready.
About Author
Oh how I want to be ready. I am fearful of the evil coming into this world. Teach me oh Lord to be mindful of you and to repent from all unrighteousness. Thank You for posting this devotional today.