Renew a Right Spirit Within Me

Is there anything in your life that brings you shame? Are there any memories or choices you have made that you hide from others because of how much they embarrass you? Perhaps you have tried to run from those sins, but time does not heal you. You still feel the disgrace. The biting feelings of regret and unworthiness won't go away. Friend, God never intended for you to live this way. When he forgives you, he does so in a manner that takes away your terrible shame forever. Sin is no longer part of who you are. You are clean, redeemed—a person who is loved and valued. So don't get stuck in the past. Don't allow memories of your failures to keep you from what your heavenly father created you to do. Ask God to pardon you. Then forgive yourself and embrace your future identity in Christ—forgiven, cleansed, and a powerful vessel of his grace.

—Charles Stanley