Feeling Sorry

The Essence of True Repentance

To apologize sincerely requires humility and a heart transformed by the Spirit of God. A genuine apology is not merely spoken—it must flow from the depths of one’s heart. But how can we recognize when an apology is genuine? By the actions that follow. True repentance cannot coexist with repeated offenses; one cannot apologize and then immediately commit the same sin.

Not all repentance originates from the heart.

In 2 Corinthians 7:8-9, Paul writes:

"Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while—yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us."

This kind of sorrow—godly sorrow—is rare. Many people casually say, "I repent" or "I’m sorry," but without true conviction.

True repentance transforms lives. It changes hearts, reshapes character, and alters behavior. If someone is caught stealing and asks for forgiveness, only to return to theft, their repentance is not real. Similarly, if you apologize for a sin and then return to it, the apology lacks sincerity. What, then, were you truly sorry for?

Habitual sin paired with empty apologies reveals a lack of true repentance. Words alone are not enough; repentance must stem from godly sorrow. 

2 Corinthians 7:10 states:

"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death."

Godly sorrow inspires life-changing repentance. It drives a person to forsake sin, pursue righteousness, and align their life with God’s will.

In 2 Corinthians 7:11, Paul describes the impact of such repentance:

"See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point, you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter."

A truly repentant person is earnest in their efforts to avoid sin. They are zealous for righteousness and strive to maintain their purity before God. Godly sorrow leaves a lasting mark, serving as a constant reminder to turn away from sin.

Those transformed by true repentance live with caution, watching their actions and words, and seeking to align their perspective with God’s. They reject their old ways, embrace godly correction, and seek to walk in the light. A good soldier of Christ welcomes reproof and discipline, ensuring their repentance is genuine and lasting.

Warning is given in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14:

"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil."

Repentance is not a fleeting act but a commitment to a new way of life. Let your repentance be genuine. Let it lead to transformation.

Acts 2:38:

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.