Tell Me a Story: Devotions From Time of Grace MinistryMinta

STORY #3: Repentance Why does God allow us to suffer? There are many answers to that vexing question. Here’s an important one: because not all suffering is bad. Sometimes pain is therapeutic. Sometimes pain helps improve our hearing and memory. Sometimes pain helps us see our aching need for God. “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.”’ So he got up and went to his father” (Luke 15:17-20). Counselors know that often you have to let alcoholics bottom out before they decide that they are ready to seek help. The pain and loneliness experienced by our prodigal friend broke his pride and led him to confess his miserable sins. His empty belly assisted him in realizing how badly he had hurt his father and his God. He had only one asset left--he was still his father’s son, and he humbly decided to ask for mercy. The Bible promises you, “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). Today would be a good day for your confession.