But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins (2 Peter 1:9).
Growth and transformation - these two words characterize those who know Jesus Christ. Or at least they should. However, far too many believers live stymied lives. They want to grow and change, yet they never seem to mature in their faith. Instead of pressing on, they continually stumble over their past sins.
Instead of witnessing Christ fill out their faith with qualities like goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love, they occupy their minds with their sin and guilt, their weaknesses and struggles, and their fears and frustrations. As Peter said, they have become nearsighted and blind. They've forgotten that their past sins have been forgiven.
It's tough for us to accept fully that we are 100% forgiven. But it's true. The Apostle John couldn't have made this truth more clear when he wrote, "I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of His name" (1 John 2:12). Jesus died in your place for your sins - each and every one. There wasn't one that he forgot or overlooked.
So believe today that your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. It is the key to your growth and transformation in Christ. Resting in this truth is the catalyst to growing in grace and in your knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Have you stopped growing in Christ? Are you filled with frustration, guilt, and fear? If so, are you willing to take your eyes off your past sins and turn them to Christ? Will you let the words of the Apostle John take root in your mind and heart?
Let me encourage you to memorize 1 John 2:12. As you do, replace "dear children" with your own first name and then watch God unshackle you from the sins of your past and enable you to rest confidently in the truth that your sins have been taken away once and for all.
In Him,
Bob Christopher