Repentance is all about change.  To repent is to change one's mind about sin which leads to a change of direction and behavior.  Ultimately it brings a fruitful life: a Christ-like life.  If you don't change: you will never grow and you will miss out on the abundant life that could be yours.

Some resisted change.  John's message was harsh to those he called "a brood of vipers": "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our Father,'  For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The ax is already at the root of the trees and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire" (8-9).

We should not presume that we've gone far enough with God.  We should not presume that he doesn't want to bring further growth in our lives.  Where there is sin, there is need for the change of repentance. 

Don't resist God.  Don't resist the changes he wants to bring into your life to make you more like Jesus.  Don't be afraid of the change that comes from repentance.  It is the way to a fruitful, abundant life.

With Joy,

Pastor Jeff

Tomorrow's Scripture Readings:
Psalms 41:1-3
Num 28:16-29:40
Luke 3:23-38
Proverbs 11:18-19

©2005 by Jeffrey R. Syverson. Feel free to share with others, but give credit where credit is due.