Contrite is a word you don’t hear too often today.
Contrite: showing sincere remorse; filled with a sense of guilt and the desire for atonement; penitent.
How often do we see people who are willing to admit a fault or a mistake and are really sorry for what they’ve done? Any politicians come to mind? Any movie stars? How about your friends or family? Most of the time people want to make excuses for their behavior or shrug it off as “no big deal” or “everyone does it.” Usually we only see remorse when people in the public eye get caught and their popularity is at stake. And then, is it true remorse?
Sad to say, even among most Christians, true repentance and remorse are rarities. People tend to hold on to certain sins they think are not a big deal, sins they’ve convinced themselves are “acceptable” (such as pornography, lying, gossiping, slander, hatred, wicked thoughts, lust, jealousy, envy, rage, foul language). Some people rationalize that as long as they aren’t hurting anyone else, it’s okay; and besides, God can’t expect them to be perfect!
What tiny sins are you holding on to today? Do you continue to do something that, deep down, you know is wrong? I’m not talking about weaknesses you struggle with or areas you are trying to improve with God’s help. I’m talking about purposeful, sinful acts and thoughts. Think it’s no big deal?
Having trouble hearing from God? Wondering if He’s hearing your prayers?
Listen! The Lord’s arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call? It’s your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, he has turned away and will not listen anymore (Isaiah 59:1–2 NLT).
Alternatively, when you approach God with a contrite heart, here’s what He promises:
I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at my word (Isaiah 66:2 NLT).
The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts (Isaiah 57:15 NLT).
The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18 NKJV).
Want to have the ear of the living God? Want to get your prayers answered? Try having a contrite heart.
MaryLu Tyndall