Counsel #3 — What About Our Failures?

Picture: Counsel #3 — What About Our Failures?CI 84.1

When you think about God and His goodness, are you worried about your own sinfulness? The reality of sin and its consequences complicates the beautiful mental picture of being created in the image of God. Human actions often fall short of God's perfect standard, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy. But the story of our redemption through Jesus Christ offers profound hope (Romans 5:8). His sacrifice reconciles us to God, offering unlimited forgiveness and the promise of new life in Him. And by accepting Him and His love, we are no longer defined by our failings, but we overcome our sins as “new creatures” through His grace, mercy, and righteousness.^{[82]https://youtu.be/VG68cA6U39g?si=9yiLLPIRJnIGwSuC&t=397}CI 84.2

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me…For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10 NKJVCI 84.3

“To restore in man the image of his Maker, to bring him back to the perfection in which he was created, to promote the development of body, mind, and soul, that the divine purpose in his creation might be realized — this was to be the great work of redemption.” Ellen White in Amazing Grace, p. 246CI 84.4

Reflect: How can you accept Jesus’ forgiveness and move towards self-acceptance, understanding that He sees you through the lens of His righteousness rather than your mistakes?CI 84.5