As we navigate our lives, many obstacles can
lead us to sin. Our free will can be a blessing and a curse, as our choices can
have a positive or extremely negative affect on our lives and the lives of
others. For those struggling with psychological impairments due to trauma,
turbulent life events and substance use disorders, it can be especially
difficult to grapple with the perceived ramifications of sin. Since not all
sins are of equal severity, and some are committed out of our full control or
awareness, you might be wondering– does God forgive all sins?
The
short answer- YES
The basis of Christianity is the principle
that God is unconditionally loving and compassionate, and there is no sin too
great that cannot be forgiven under any circumstances. Christian teachings have
long emphasized that you were created in God’s image, and God makes no mistakes
in his creation. Any flaw you might believe yourself to have is not going to
mean condemnation, and all sins are forgivable if you are willing to repent. This
is evident in the Bible, with passages citing confession as the true path to
divine forgiveness.
“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)
Severe
Sins
It might be hard to grasp the idea that any
sin is forgivable, especially since there are mortal sins such as murder that
seem too severe to be forgiven. However, just because all sins are forgivable,
does not mean they require an equal amount of redemption on your part to make
up for your mistakes.
When you were a kid, did you ever steal a
candy bar from a department store? Many people learn the lesson not to steal
from a young age, and maybe your parents caught you and made you return it and
apologize to the manager. This is a simple example of the immediate repentance
of sin, but some sins are much more damaging to your soul and harmful to the
lives of others. For example, if you drive under the influence and hurt or even
kill someone, you have a lot more redemption and repentance needed to make up
for such a mistake.
How Can
You Repent for Severe Sins?
Even though severe sins require intense
redemptive measures, under no circumstances is a person beyond saving due to
their sins. God sees every one of his children as just that- children who are
learning and in need of his holy guidance. In the DUI scenario, although this
recklessness was undoubtedly sinful, one can always take steps to lessen the
suffering caused to themselves and others. If your sins have done harm to
yourself or others, the first step in redemption is recognizing an internal
problem and seeking help for it. This way, you will not run the risk of harming
more people as a result of your internal struggles.
There is incredible power in self-acceptance,
even if it means accepting that you’re human and you need help. It’s God’s will
for you to learn and grow through positive connection to others. No matter what
place in life you’re in, there are people in the world who want to help you.
“Do not be overcome
by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)
Overcome
Your Struggles Through Christ
You can learn more about seeking redemption
through Christian rehabilitation and how it offers a unique benefit for people
struggling with substance use disorder here. Your healing starts with Christ, and as
the Bible says:
“He himself
bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to
righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:21)
If you’re struggling with substance use and
ready to receive the healing grace of God through effective rehabilitation, contact
us to start your journey of redemption.
