In case you missed our weekly “Best New Self” Instagram (IG) Live Bible Study covering Luke 15:1-24 this week, here’s a replay (see video below)! While studying Luke 15 to prepare for our study, I was greatly reminded of the time period when I finally saw my way of life for what it was – hurtful and sinful – and wanted nothing more than to repent from my old way of living and be made new in Christ. This chapter paints such a beautiful picture of how God waits for us to see the errors of our ways, as well as how He searches for us when we’re lost. I love this chapter of the Bible because it shows me just how much our Father loves us. In each example given in this chapter we see that a prized possession is lost. Why? Because Jesus is trying to tell us that WE are His prized positions, and He wants nothing more than for us to be saved and have a close relationship with Him.

A few other points we cover in this video are the importance of (1) celebrating when other people come to Christ, (2) not judging others, (3) being honest with ourselves about areas we need to change, (4) not living under the burden of guilt – but rather repenting and living as our new self in Christ!

No matter what we’ve done, when we repent (meaning to genuinely turn from our old sinful ways), God accepts us back with an overjoyed heart! In Luke 15:7, Jesus reiterates this truth by stating, “…there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”

You are so loved by our Heavenly Father, and He is so incredibly excited to have a genuine relationship with you! You’re never too far, and today is the day you can choose to change things! Take it day by day. It may not happen overnight, but in time you’ll see a change in you that can only come from Christ. And don’t be fearful of failure. We all make mistakes, but the beauty of grace is…God’s ready to forgive the moment we ask.

Praying for you today and always, friends! Hope my words speak to your heart!

Love in Christ,

Helen Elizabeth