What steps can we take to seek God's forgiveness after sinning, like Adam? Recognizing Our Nakedness: Admitting the Sin • “Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked” (Genesis 3:7). Their first sensation after disobedience was guilt and vulnerability. • Acknowledge the wrong without minimizing it. • Psalm 51:3—“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.” Dropping the Fig Leaves: Rejecting Self-Made Coverings • “They sewed together fig leaves and made coverings for themselves” (Genesis 3:7). Self-effort cannot erase guilt. • Proverbs 28:13—“He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” • Salvation is “not by works” but by grace (Ephesians 2:8-9). Stepping Into the Light: Approaching God, Not Hiding • God’s question “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9) invites sinners out of hiding. • 1 John 1:7—“If we walk in the light… the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.” • Move toward Scripture, worship, and fellowship instead of retreating into shame. Speaking the Truth: Honest Confession • Adam shifted blame; forgiveness begins where excuses end. • 1 John 1:9—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” • Psalm 32:5—“I acknowledged my sin to You… and You forgave the guilt of my sin.” Receiving the Covering God Provides • “The LORD God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them” (Genesis 3:21). A life had to be given so they could be covered. • Hebrews 9:22—“Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” • Jesus is “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Turning Around: Repentant Obedience • True sorrow produces change: “godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation” (2 Corinthians 7:10). • Replace former disobedience with active obedience—study, prayer, service. • Romans 6:4—walk “in newness of life.” Living Gratefully in Grace • Romans 8:1—“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” • Keep short accounts—confess quickly, respond immediately. • Express gratitude daily for the covering bought at so great a price, letting thankfulness fuel ongoing holiness and joy. |
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