Nothing but the Blood

Shame and guilt from the sins of our past are some of the most common things a Christian (or someone thinking about becoming a Christian) battles with. The shame and guilt associated with our sins may have you feeling like you’re broken beyond repair (read Psalms 51). You may think that you’ve done too much and what you’ve done can’t be forgiven. If any of these things relate to you, just know that there is hope!

9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

That is a list of awful offenses, but the keyword to me is “but.” “And such were some of you: but.” Now, if we are washed, then we are sanctified and justified. If God is willing to forget our sins why should we hold on to them and constantly think about them?

16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. - Hebrews 10:16-17

You may be thinking “I’ve gotten forgiveness for my sins, but I still deal with the guilt and shame.” God will do His part if we let Him, but we have something to do also. We should strive to have unwavering trust in the promises of the Bible.

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

This verse doesn’t say God would forgive us and turn His back on us. He will forgive us and cleanse us. If we continue in our relationship with God, He will direct our pathway where we can leave shame and guilt behind.

In a world where people are constantly looking for answers, we are blessed with an opportunity to have true peace. We can leave our past, guilt, and shame behind. Nothing but the blood of Jesus Christ can provide this for us.

6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; - Ephesians 1:6-7