Christian Devotional – September 4, 2013

VERSE:

Joel 2:13–Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.

TRUTH:

The people of Israel had a tradition that when they were in mourning or showing deep repentance, they would tear their robes. Unfortunately, it had come to be just a tradition and not something that actually reached their hearts. God is reminding the people that it is not about the outward signs of repentance, but the inner signs. Do we allow our hearts to be broken by our sin? Are we being genuine in our repentance or just putting on a show for others to see? The Lord indicates His qualities and characteristics that are available to those of us who genuinely repent and seek Him.

RESPONSE:

Father, You are gracious and compassionate and as I turn to You, You display Your abundant love. I will repent of my wrongs to You and will do that from the heart as I allow You to show me my wrongs. I love You and will seek You.