Forgive and Forget

“For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” (Hebrews 8:12 ESV)

The writer of Hebrews is speaking of God’s people, those who come to know God as their Savior. God's mercy is unending for the elect. When we repent of our sins, we are forgiven and cleansed of our failures. Because of the New Covenant, we have a high priest in Christ and a direct mediator with God. The Spirit hears our inner groanings and prays on our behalf.

How can God, a just God who requires justice and the application of wrath against sinners, be merciful and forget sins? This is a question that has puzzled many. It is often a point brought out by those with a worldview who challenge the faith. We know God hates those who do evil; it is written in Psalm 5:5, “The boastful shall not stand before your eyes; you hate all evildoers.” We also know that Proverbs 17:15 says, “He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord." How, then, is God not an abomination for justifying the wicked?

The answer to this paradox lies in the person of Jesus Christ. God, in His infinite wisdom, sent Christ as a penal substitution for each of us. Christ suffered and died for all sins, past, present, and future of humanity. Those who have faith in Christ are made righteous before God; they are justified. They can then repent and turn from their sins in a walk of sanctification that grows deeper with their devotion to the Lord.

Have you started your walk with Christ? Do you know Christ as your Savior, your Lord? If you do not, then seek Jesus. Wise men did, and the wise still do. Ask Him into your heart; it is urgent that you do because none of us have a guarantee of a tomorrow.

Grace and Peace!