Counsels on Lifestyle

Counsel #28 — Redeemed And Restored

Picture: Counsel #28 — Redeemed And Restored CLi 115.1

Often we have a hard time “forgiving ourselves” after turning away from pornography. But actually, the struggle is accepting God’s forgiveness, believing in and embracing His grace and mercy. Through Christ’s sacrifice, your sins are already paid for, so there is no need to feel condemned or unworthy after you’ve genuinely repented.^[108] God’s love is unconditional, meaning He doesn’t love us based on what we say and do, but He loves us because of who we are—His creation, bought back by His Son’s death on the cross! CLi 115.2

Instead of thinking about all the mistakes you made, focus on what God says about you, that you are a new creation in Him.^[109] As believers, God calls us to walk in freedom, not shame, so trust Him to heal and transform you. In the end, your victory is not only for you, but it will serve as a testimony of His unfailing love and redeeming power to reach others. CLi 115.3

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV CLi 115.4

“Let Christ, the divine Life dwell in you and through you reveal the heaven-born love that will inspire hope in the hopeless and bring heaven's peace to the sin-stricken heart.” Ellen White in The Faith I Live By, p. 131 CLi 115.5

Reflect: Why is it so important to accept God’s forgiveness? CLi 115.6