Second chances

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us - Romans 5:8

Everyone makes mistakes in life and sometimes the results can have a major negative impact on another person's life and well-being.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23

It's especially uncomfortable when it's done to us by someone we love and trust deeply. We are forced to deal with the consequences of someone else's actions and it's never a pleasant experience.

Take for example the apostle Peter. During the last supper Jesus told Peter he would deny Jesus and his response was one of shock and disbelief that he would do such a thing to his friend.

And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly - Matthew 26:75

He was completely devastated that he did such a thing to Jesus after three years of being taught and serving with him. I'm sure in his mind he was thinking to himself " If I get a second chance I know I can be better and learn from my mistakes".

My former pastor used to say often that God is the God of second chances.

Those words seem very relevant as we quickly approach easter because this is how we all gained the ability to choose Jesus by faith as a ransom for our sins and receive complete forgiveness which is our second chance!

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved - John 3:17

Salvation does not mean we will not continue to make mistakes but it does help to remove the unrealistic burden of guilt and shame that the devil seeks to use against us causing self-condemnation.

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit - Romans 8:1

It's been greatly discussed over the years that Judas Iscariot could have been forgiven of his betrayal of Jesus if he had asked Jesus for forgiveness instead of ending his life due to pride?

We do know that the finished work of the cross of Jesus' life death and resurrection has provided everyone a second chance.

The only question that remains is are you Peter or Judas?