“When iniquities prevail against me,
you atone for our transgressions.
Blessed is the one you choose and bring near,
to dwell in your courts!
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house,
the holiness of your temple!”
– Psalm 65:3-4
This is the gracious invitation of God through faith in Jesus Christ! When you stumble and fall into sin, Jesus has already atoned for that sin through His perfect, sinless life, sacrificial death on the cross, and resurrection from the dead. When you once again fall short of God’s command and expectation, don’t beat yourself up about it endlessly. Don’t try to atone for it yourself. Take it to God in confession and repentance, trusting in the finished work of Jesus on the cross.
Your sins have been paid for and God will freely forgive you (1 John 1:9). After that, rejoice in the grace and presence of the Lord! Through faith in Christ, God has chosen you and brought you near to Him. His Spirit lives in you and you live in His presence. Don’t dwell in guilt or shame. Dwell in God’s love and grace. Your Father in Heaven loves you!
Fill yourself with God’s presence rather than the things of the world. Find your identity and essence as God’s precious child rather than identifying yourself by your possessions, accomplishments, or sins. Realize that lasting joy and satisfaction are freely available in the Lord. Be satisfied in His goodness. Rejoice in the holiness of His Temple – which is YOU because the Holy Spirit lives in you. #FollowJesus and be truly blessed!