There’s a common belief that our sins follow us forever and we can never be forgiven, no matter what we do. But the Bible tells a different story. Old testament priests had to offer continual sacrifices to “pay” for the sin of God’s people. But Jesus came to change that. He paid for our sins once on the cross, and that solved our sin problem, freeing us from guilt and shame. We’ve been completely forgiven by God.

There’s a purpose for guilt. But sometimes we hold onto guilt once it’s served its purpose. And then it becomes destructive. This post looks at guilt and the power of being forgiven.

There is a debate among Bible believing people. Some believe that God’s forgiveness is conditional, that he only forgives people who “repent,” that is, change their lives. Others believe that God’s forgiveness is unconditional, meaning that he forgives us and that act of grace causes many people to change their behavior.

Sometimes our past sin and failure hangs over us like a cloud. We wonder if that cloud will ever lift and we can live a new life. This post continues a series that looks at personal failure and how to reclaim your life.

Is there hope for the future when you’ve made a mess of your life? Can you ever be forgiven or forgive yourself? This is the second post in a series that looks at these questions and offers answers that will encourage you and bring you hope.