I keep returning to this phrase we frequently use: the already but not yet. I feel forgiveness ought to be framed in that understanding, that there’s an already but not yet. Maybe a unique way of claiming it’s that forgiveness ought to be understood as a now and ongoing. It is something now that I take part in; it is the judicial reality of it, but it surely’s an ongoing process that leaves space for when memories hit, I’m re-triggered, and even the exercise that what I am unable to do now, the blood of Christ, will cover. What if the sanctification process is that you just possibly need the blood of Christ here at this moment, but there’s going to be a 12 months down, or 10 days, or 25 years, whatever it’d take, where God is sanctifying you to a spot where you may take care of that at that moment. Forgiveness should truly be understood as a current and ongoing reality within the lifetime of a Christian that is growing towards maturity.
Lysa TerKeurst has done deep theological research on common questions we’ve surrounding forgiveness as Christians in her resource, “What Does the Bible Actually Say About Forgiveness? A Verse-by-Verse Look at Scripture.” Download your free copy today!
Living within the peace we wish doesn’t come from the absence of pain and chaos, but by knowing Jesus is with us in those things. If you’re eager for this sort of soul-settled assurance, join Dr. Joel Muddamalle within the pages of his latest book, The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength, and Confidence Through Humility.
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Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joel and his wife have 4 children and two dogs. If he doesn’t have a theology book in his hand, you may make sure he’s either coaching considered one of his kids in a sport, getting roped right into a reel by his wife @almostindianwife, or doing his best to maintain up his hoops game on the basketball court on Tuesday nights with the blokes—then going for a chilly plunge. Yeah, it’s a thing. Pre-order his book The Hidden Peace: Finding the Security, Strength, and Confidence Through Humility here.
