Question
Gramps,
Under the process of repentance, how would you know that Heavenly Father has forgiven you?
Paul
Answer
Paul,
Forgiveness, in a spiritual context, is not merely about absolving someone of wrongdoing; it is a transformative process that involves both the individual seeking forgiveness and the divine grace offered by God. In the scriptures, we find powerful affirmations of God’s willingness to forgive those who sincerely repent. For instance, Doctrine and Covenants 58:42-43 states,
Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.
By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them.
This scripture highlights two critical components of forgiveness: confession and forsaking. Confession involves acknowledging one’s sins before God, while forsaking means turning away from those sins and committing to a new path. This dual process is essential for individuals seeking to understand their standing before God.
Repentance is often viewed as a daunting task, but it is fundamentally an act of faith. It is the acknowledgment of one’s shortcomings and the desire to change. Elder D. Chad Richardson emphasized the importance of self-forgiveness in the repentance process, stating, “The Lord, however, makes no exceptions when He declares, ‘I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.’” This includes forgiving ourselves.
The act of repentance is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. It requires patience and a willingness to grow. As individuals strive to align their lives with the teachings of Jesus Christ, they may find that their understanding of forgiveness deepens over time. The process can be likened to a gradual unfolding, where one learns to let go of past mistakes and embrace the grace offered through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Many individuals struggle with lingering feelings of guilt, even after they have repented. This is a common experience, as the adversary often seeks to remind us of our past mistakes, attempting to undermine our confidence in God’s mercy. Elder Tad R. Callister noted, “If you feel the Spirit—when you pray, read the scriptures, teach, testify, or at any other time—then that is your witness that you have been forgiven.” The presence of the Holy Spirit in one’s life serves as a powerful indicator of forgiveness and divine approval.
It is essential to recognize that feelings of guilt do not equate to a lack of forgiveness. The Lord’s promise in Isaiah 1:18 reassures us that “though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” This transformation is possible through sincere repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
Understanding how to know if one is forgiven can be a source of comfort and strength. Here are several key points to consider:
1. Sincere Repentance
The first step in knowing you are forgiven is to engage in sincere repentance. This involves not only confessing your sins but also making a genuine effort to change your behavior. As you strive to forsake your past actions, you can find peace in the knowledge that you are actively working towards aligning your life with God’s will.
2. Receiving the Holy Spirit
The presence of the Holy Spirit in your life is a significant indicator of forgiveness. If you feel inspired, uplifted, or guided during prayer, scripture study, or service, it is a testament to your standing before God. The Holy Spirit cannot dwell in unholy temples, so feeling its influence is a sign that you are on the right path.
3. Trusting in God’s Love
God’s love is unconditional and everlasting. He desires for all His children to return to Him. As you work through your feelings of guilt and unworthiness, remember that God sees you as you can become, not just as you are. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland stated, “The Lord is always there to help us change our lives, if we only let him.” Trusting in this divine love can help alleviate feelings of inadequacy.
4. Seeking Guidance from Church Leaders
If you are struggling with feelings of unworthiness, consider seeking counsel from your bishop or another trusted church leader. They can provide guidance, support, and reassurance as you navigate your spiritual journey. Their perspective can help you understand the principles of forgiveness and repentance more clearly.
Gramps
