Getting a Second Chance
Lamentations 3:22 – “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.”
We all deserve a second chance when we get into trouble. A prisoner can be given a second chance after he has served his term in prison for the crime that he committed. He can start a new life without returning back to his old ways. God is always compassionate towards us. It is because of His great love that we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail (Lam. 3:22). Imagine being constantly punished by God for every “small” sin that we commit. God gives everyone a second chance to repent, such that no one would perish.
When Peter denied Jesus thrice, He could have punished him. But Jesus forgave Peter and gave him the responsibility of feeding His sheep (God’s people), if Peter genuinely loved Jesus (John 21:17). Peter had repented of the mistake that he committed. Later Peter died asa martyr for Christ. Paul the apostle was a persecutor of Christians.
After Paul met Jesus onhis way to Damascus, he gave his life for Jesus. God used Paul as an instrument to proclaim His name to the Gentiles, kings and people of Israel (Acts 9:15). Paul fought the good fight and finished the race for Jesus (2 Tim. 4:7).
The prodigal son realised his mistakes and came back to his father. He confessed that he had sinned against heaven and his earthly father and was not worthy to be his son. His father rejoiced, clothed him with the best clothing, put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet and held a feast (Luke 15:11-32). In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents (Luke 15:10). God will wipe our slate clean if we repent of the mistakes that we commit. He will forgive our sins and remember our iniquity no more (Heb. 10:17). Are you willing to reap the benefits of getting a second chance?