“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” Psalm 51:17
The key difference between those who received forgiveness and those who didn’t lies in true repentance—a heart that is genuinely broken over sin and desires restoration with God.
Judas and Esau regretted their actions, but their sorrow was self-focused. Judas felt remorse but didn’t turn to God for mercy. Esau wept over the consequences of his choices but didn’t truly seek to change. King Saul admitted his sin but was more concerned about his reputation than restoring his relationship with God.
In contrast, Peter and David demonstrated godly sorrow. Peter’s bitter weeping led to a transformed life, as Jesus later restored him (John 21:15-17). David not only confessed his sin but also sought cleansing and renewal (Psalm 51:10). Their repentance wasn’t just about avoiding punishment—it was about restoring their relationship with God.
However, it’s important to remember that repentance itself does not earn forgiveness—God’s grace does. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
While true repentance is necessary, it is ultimately God’s mercy that brings forgiveness. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in convicting us of sin and leading us to genuine repentance (John 16:8).
True Repentance Involves:
Acknowledging sin honestly (Psalm 32:5)
A deep sorrow for grieving God, not just regret over consequences (2 Corinthians 7:10)
A desire for transformation and obedience (Luke 3:8)
Faith in God’s mercy and willingness to be restored (1 John 1:9)
Ultimately, God sees the heart. He forgives those who truly seek Him, not just out of fear or regret, but out of love and humility.
“The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
Joseph’s Example: A Heart Set on God
Joseph’s response to Potiphar’s wife in Genesis 39:9 reveals a key aspect of true repentance and righteousness:
“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”
Joseph’s primary concern was not just the consequences of sin but his relationship with God. This is a crucial difference between those who truly repent and those who only regret their actions.
Joseph feared God more than man. He understood that sin is ultimately against God, not just people (Psalm 51:4).
He valued his relationship with God above temporary pleasure. Unlike Esau, who traded his birthright for a meal (Hebrews 12:16-17), Joseph chose righteousness even when it cost him.
He fled from sin. True repentance involves turning away from sin, not just feeling bad about it (2 Timothy 2:22).
Joseph’s example teaches us that a heart truly set on God doesn’t just repent after sin—it seeks to avoid sin in the first place. This is the kind of heart God desires—a heart that loves Him so much that it prioritises His will above all else.
May we seek true repentance and rely on God’s grace to transform our lives.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk