What steps can we take to restore our relationship with God after sinning? Sin Leaves Us Spiritually Dry Jeremiah 3:3: “Therefore the showers have been withheld, and no spring rains have fallen. Yet you have the brazen look of a prostitute; you refused to be ashamed.” • The “withheld” showers picture the loss of intimacy and blessing that follows unconfessed sin. • Israel’s “brazen look” shows a refusal to feel shame—an attitude that locks dryness in place. God’s Open Invitation to Return • Jeremiah 3:12: “Return, faithless Israel… I will not look on you in anger, for I am merciful.” • Jeremiah 3:22: “‘Return, O faithless children; I will heal your faithlessness.’” • 1 John 1:9 echoes the same heart: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” God never withholds forgiveness from the repentant; He asks only that we come home. Practical Steps to Restoration 1. Recognize the Drought ‑ Let Jeremiah 3:3 press us to admit our dryness rather than excuse it. 2. Feel Godly Sorrow ‑ Psalm 51:17: “A broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” 3. Confess and Renounce ‑ Jeremiah 3:13: “Only acknowledge your guilt… and have not obeyed My voice.” ‑ Proverbs 28:13: “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” 4. Receive Cleansing by Faith ‑ Isaiah 55:7: “Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will freely pardon.” ‑ Trust Christ’s finished work (Ephesians 1:7). 5. Walk in Renewed Obedience ‑ James 4:8: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” ‑ 2 Chronicles 7:14: humility, prayer, turning from wicked ways bring healing. Assurance After Confession • Jeremiah 3:14: “I am your Husband.” Restoration leads to covenant closeness. • Romans 8:1: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Living in Ongoing Fellowship • Guard the heart daily (Proverbs 4:23). • Stay hydrated in the Word (Psalm 1:2-3). • Keep short accounts—confess quickly when convicted (1 John 2:1-2). • Walk by the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16). When we turn from sin with honesty and faith, the withheld “showers” return, and fellowship with God is joyfully restored. |
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