Scripture: "She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said to her, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.’"— John 8:11
Devotion: The Bible also reminds us: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
We have all sinned and fallen short. None of us are perfect. But sometimes, we convince ourselves that our sin is so bad that we can’t possibly be forgiven or accepted by God.
Think of the person who has struggled with addiction, lying, or even sexual sin. They may feel that their choices have ruined them forever, and because of that, they decide to keep living in it. Some people even believe they must be completely sinless before they can attend church. That is not true. There are good churches where people will not judge you but instead welcome you with love.
Sin will also make you feel unworthy to talk to God in prayer. The enemy wants you to stay stuck; believing your mistakes have separated you from God forever. But here’s the truth: you are not defined by what you’ve done, unless you choose to remain in it.
God is waiting for your repentance and honesty. When you confess your sins and ask for forgiveness, He is faithful to forgive you. He releases you, just as Jesus released the woman caught in sin, with the words: “Go, and sin no more.”
Just like in our human relationships, we don’t want someone repeating the same mistake over and over again while asking for forgiveness each time. God calls us to repent; turn away from the sin; and move forward in newness of life. Will there be challenges? Yes. But each time you stumble, repeat the steps of repentance and rely on His strength. Victory over sin is possible. You can do it.