Victory Over Shame and GuiltSample

# Forgiveness…in spite of everything! [IMAGE CONTENT] David is known in the Bible as "the man in whom God delights." Or should that read "the man in whom God used to delight"? Is it possible to lose God's love? Have you ever asked yourself that question? In a way, I'm glad that David made the mistakes he did—he's so easy to use as an example. Thinking about his life, I truly believe that each one of us can relate to David's difficult story in some way. Each of us has made mistakes we're not proud of. Each of us has committed sins we hope others won't discover… And yet, there is One who sees all (see Genesis 16:13). He knows everything, still loves us, and will continue to love us! When you think about David's story, it could absolutely make up an entire Netflix series and more! David defeated the giant Goliath, found success as a skilled and handsome musician, became king, and won battle after battle! What more could anyone want? Well, man always wants more, and this desire quickly becomes dangerous. That's what happened in David's case. He committed adultery and murder, which brought a wave of tragedy into his life that he could not escape. It wasn't until the prophet Nathan came to David to open his eyes that David realized the depth of what he'd done and confessed: "...'I have sinned against the LORD.'..." (2 Samuel 12:13, NLT) At this point, we may expect God to angrily rebuke David, but this is how the verse continues: "Nathan replied, 'Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you…'" (2 Samuel 12:13, NLT). Yes, there were consequences, but the Lord forgave David. It can be difficult to grasp and accept this incomprehensible mercy and love that God offers us. That's why I'd like to end today's message with this promise He gives us in 1 John: "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, NIV) Praise God! This is your chance! One prayer of repentance can set you free! You are a miracle! Déborah