He Forgets My Sin
…this is the LORD’s declaration. “For I will forgive their iniquity and never again remember their sin.
Jeremiah 31:34 CSB
My best friend betrayed me and later apologized, but I could not forget what she did. Even though it’s been years, I still remember the hurt of that betrayal. It threatened to destroy our relaitonship.
It's understandable to carry the weight of past hurts, especially when they involve someone close. How difficult it is for us to truly forget, even when we forgive.
Does God forget our sins?
The answer, beautifully articulated in Jeremiah 31:34, offers incredible comfort. This prophecy speaks of a new covenant where God declares, "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." This isn't just about forgiveness; it’s a divine act of forgetfulness.
While we struggle to erase painful memories, God operates differently. Because of Jesus' sacrifice, our sins are not just pardoned; they are, in essence, removed from God's memory—a complete wiping clean of the slate.
Some might argue that if God forgets our sins, it gives us license to continue sinning. However, our heart offers a profound counter-argument: because of who Jesus is, we hate our sin. This is the hallmark of a transformed heart. As our love for Jesus deepens, so does our desire to obey. This is a natural outpouring of gratitude for His boundless grace.
Are there areas of sin that plague you, that seem to reappear no matter how hard you try to fight them? Instead of focusing on self-condemnation, consider pouring more deeply into your relationship with Jesus. As you fall more in love with Him, ask Him to draw you closer spiritually. This growth in intimacy will strengthen you to say "no" to those strongholds and unintentional sins.
Cling to the promise that your sins, as a disciple of Christ, are completely forgotten by God. This isn't an excuse to continue in sin, but rather a powerful motivation to live a life that truly honors the One who has extended such immeasurable mercy and divine forgetfulness.
Chris Adams
