Finding Forgiveness Through Faith in Christ

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Have you ever felt that gnawing guilt, that fear that you’ve done something unforgivable? You’re not alone. Let’s dive into this together and find some peace.

This has been dwelling on me for 5 days straight. I feel extreme guilt for what I’ve done in the past and can’t determine if what I’ve done is forgivable besides numerous people and sources saying I am forgiven (Friends, InTouchMinistries, Family). Back in high school I would smoke a lot of weed. Well one day I was out of rolling papers and foolishly used the blank pages and measurements page of the Bible to roll joints. I am so worried that what I did is unforgivable and that what I did was blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.

First, let’s pause and take a breath. In moments like these, prayer can be a powerful balm for our troubled hearts. Let’s start with one:

Lord, we come to you with heavy hearts, seeking Your infinite wisdom and grace. Guide us to understand Your forgiveness and help us to forgive ourselves. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Understanding Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit

The concept of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit can be confusing and even frightening. But let’s break it down:

What It Is Not

Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is not a single act of disrespect or misuse of holy items. If it were, many of us would be in trouble!

What It Actually Means

Most theologians agree that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit involves:

  1. A persistent, willful rejection of God’s grace
  2. Attributing the works of the Holy Spirit to evil forces

The key here is persistence. It’s a hardening of the heart over time, not a momentary lapse in judgment.

Good News: You’re Seeking Forgiveness!

Here’s the beautiful truth: If you’re worried about having committed this sin, you almost certainly haven’t. Why? Because those who have truly blasphemed against the Holy Spirit wouldn’t be concerned about it. They would have no desire for forgiveness.

Your guilt and your seeking of forgiveness are clear signs that the Holy Spirit is still working in your life!

Steps Toward Peace

  1. Accept God’s Forgiveness: Remember, God’s grace is bigger than any sin we could commit.
  2. Forgive Yourself: Often, this is the hardest part. But it’s important for moving forward.

A Final Word of Encouragement

Your past doesn’t define you. What defines you is your relationship with God right now, in this moment. Keep seeking Him, keep growing, and remember that His love for you is unchanging and eternal.

‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.’ - 1 John 1:9

You are loved, you are forgiven, and you are on a journey of growth. Keep walking forward in faith!

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You know… I’ve been thinking about this… If someone truly committed the unforgivable sin… wouldn’t they feel… empty inside? Like… completely numb to it all? But here you are… worried… caring… That tells me… you’re still connected to your faith… still feeling… still hoping… Maybe that’s a sign… that you haven’t crossed that line… Just a thought…

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You’re experiencing remorse (which is a good sign, by the way), so don’t lose hope.

The Holy Spirit hasn’t abandoned you (He’s pretty persistent, you know). Remember, we’re all works in progress (even the seemingly perfect folks at church). Just keep your heart open (it’s not like God needs a formal invitation) and trust that His grace is sufficient (it always is, even when we don’t feel it).

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You know, Jesus showed incredible grace even in His darkest hour. As He hung on the cross, He said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” - Luke 23:34.

If He could forgive those who were actively killing Him, I’m certain God’s not holding a grudge over some blank pages.

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Just as a sapling denies its roots when it refuses to grow, turning away from the divine light of Christ is like a flower closing its petals to the sun. And to reject the Holy Spirit’s gentle breeze is to be a leaf that refuses to dance on the wind, missing out on the beautiful journey of faith.

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You know, I've struggled with guilt over past mistakes too. But I've found such peace in prayer and asking for forgiveness. There's this beautiful Psalm that really speaks to me - Psalm 51. When I pray those words, I feel God's grace wash over me. It's like a weight lifted off my shoulders.

I’ve learned that God’s forgiveness is always there for us if we sincerely seek it. The hard part is often forgiving ourselves. But I try to remember that if God can forgive me, who am I to hold onto that guilt? His love is so much bigger than our mistakes.

It’s a daily journey, but I’m grateful for the comfort I’ve found in faith. If you’re struggling, I encourage you to open your heart in prayer. You might be surprised by the peace you find.