Forgiveness approved!

Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; –Psalms 103:1-3

Today’s economy is run on credit. A three-digit number defines our (credit)worthiness and is the key to our financial life. This credit score can make or break us when getting a mortgage, car loan, or student loan. Bad credit can make it more challenging to get a credit card with a low-interest rate and, in general, will make it more expensive to borrow money for any purpose.

But even if we are not in the market for a loan, our credit can still significantly impact our lives. Our credit score can determine if we can get that lovely apartment we want, how much we pay for insurance, and even whether we get that new job. Landlords, insurers, and employers frequently use credit information to determine if we are reliable and responsible. While bad credit may only show the details of how we deal with debt, some will also extend those characteristics into other areas of our life.

So in this context, the world’s systems will determine how to treat us based on our past. But things could not be more different regarding Jesus and his kingdom. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). Jesus’ primary concern is not where we have been or what we have done. His concern is for our rest, which would saturate every aspect of our life. Instead of placing more burdens on us because of our past, he desires to remove all limitations and give us a fresh start.

Additionally, our willingness to receive mercy from him is not based on our past. “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” (Psalms 103:12). When we come to Jesus with open hearts that are remorseful of our sins, seeking him to be the greater in our lives, he erases everything we have ever done. His way of erasing sin is by water baptism in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38). Yet even after we are saved, should we fall into sin (though we actively and aggressively strive to avoid it), he is our greatest advocate with the father (1 John 2:1).

So when it comes to Jesus, you don’t have to prove you are worthy. You won’t need to present pay stubs, fill out an application, or submit reference letters. Stop allowing your past to torment your mind because once you come to Jesus and are forgiven, the sting of your history is erased. The memories will remain there but will chronicle how God has delivered you. Above all, forgive yourself because your forgiveness has been approved!