In what ways can we restore our relationship with God today? Reading the Cry of Psalm 85:5 “Will You be angry with us forever? Will You draw out Your anger to all generations?” The psalmist feels the weight of God’s displeasure, but the very question hints at hope: God’s anger is not permanent; restoration is possible. Recognizing the Rift • God’s holiness demands a response to sin (Habakkuk 1:13). • Our distance is not because He moved; we did (Isaiah 59:2). • Honest acknowledgment of this gap is the first step toward healing (Psalm 32:3-5). Return through Repentance • Repentance is more than regret; it’s a decisive turning back (Acts 3:19). • “Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:7). • Practical expression: confess specific sins, renounce them, choose new obedience. Confess and Receive Cleansing • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). • Confession brings hidden darkness into the light where grace operates (John 3:20-21). • Cleansing is not self-earned; it’s granted on the basis of Christ’s finished work (1 Peter 2:24). Approach Through Christ’s Atoning Work • The tearing of the temple veil (Matthew 27:51) opened permanent access to God (Hebrews 10:19-22). • We draw near “with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith,” trusting His blood, not our performance. • This restores fellowship rather than merely resetting an account balance. Live in Daily Dependence • Ongoing intimacy requires: – Regular Scripture intake (Psalm 119:9-11). – Prayerful conversation, pouring out concerns and listening (Philippians 4:6-7). – Obedient action as proof of love (John 14:21). Stay in Community • Isolation breeds drift; fellowship fans the flame (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Mutual encouragement helps guard hearts and keep repentance fresh (James 5:16). Guard Against Drift • Quickly confess new sins—keep accounts short (Psalm 139:23-24). • Practice gratitude, a daily reminder of grace received (Colossians 3:15-17). • Worship regularly; praise realigns the heart (Psalm 22:3). Anticipate Complete Restoration • Earthly fellowship is sweet, but the ultimate restoration awaits Christ’s return (Revelation 21:3-4). • Until then, walk in the light, confident that His anger passed to the cross and His favor now rests on the repentant (Psalm 30:5). |
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