Acts 3:19- “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.”
Acts 26:18-“ to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in me.”
Once our minds and hearts were darkened. Demonic influences were there. We praise God that he has opened our eyes and shone his light in our hearts. No one is saved by his own merits. Nobody can serve God by his own skill, knowledge or gifts. It is all by God’s mercy.
Testimony
Few days back, FRP Gift school was run physically in Gurdaspur, Punjab. When the teacher started teaching, no student was able to control there. Despite being a Christian, those people were under control of the worldly god. They didn’t want to attend classes. It is same as written in this scripture 2 Corinthian 4:4 –“The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
Then somehow the teacher started class at around 1 pm with only 5 students. As the class progressed, stagnation started coming in the students. After that the students increased in the classes. They learnt forgiveness. In the class of strongholds, the strongholds of so many people were broken. It was a wonderful work of God that so many people repented there. They accepted that they never took such teachings. After 5 days, teacher got a call from the coordinator that many people have come out of darkness and there has been a lot of change in people. We give all glory to the Lord.
Yes, we were blinded by greed, lust, love of pleasure and desire of popularity. Jesus is the only one who can open our eyes. His words have the power to change lives.
It is like in Acts 2:37–47 people believe, they repent, trust Jesus will forgive their sins, and agree to be baptized as a public sign that they are now Jesus-followers.
We simply share the Scriptures with love, praying that God will use it to touch people’s hearts. One touch from Jesus and the blinding lies and deception of Satan will be removed, replaced by wonderful sight.
Luke 24:47 “and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem”.
He saves. He forgives. He calls. He empowers. The only way to keep relevant is to stand on the truth, the unchanging word of God. Truth does not change.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word of truth, unfailing love, blessings and goodness. Help us to recognize Satan’s lies, refuse his temptations, and rely on your truth. Be our strength and gracious to us.
We long for you. In Jesus’ Name,
Amen!!
Sol. Poonam Batra