Have you ever had someone apologize to you, then repeat the same thing they’d done to hurt or upset you in the first place? It happens more often than any of us care to acknowledge. Maybe we’ve even been guilty of it ourselves (*cringe*). For an “I’m sorry” to have meaning, it needs to be followed by repentance. Repentance is, in effect, turning around and going the opposite direction. Think of a military “about face.” None of us are going to be perfect, but if we are consistently in God’s Word, consistently seeking His guidance, consistently relying on His strength, our way will more likely be cleansed of sinful actions and attitudes. If we don’t enjoy tripping over sin and wallowing in its regret, “take heed” according to His Word.
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