Three greatest words – in the Bible are for you
There are several very powerful and moving words that can be spoken and received like; I love you, thank you, I’m sorry, etc. Each of these short phrases can have a profound impact in a persons life, but the three greatest words you can ever hear are – YOU ARE FORGIVEN!
In Luke 7:36-50 there is a story about a woman who came to where Jesus was dining with an important city leader. The woman entered into the house where they were and began washing Jesus feet with her hair and the tears that were rolling down her cheeks.
She was crying because she knew her life was a mess. She was a “sinner”, the town prostitute and everyone in town knew who she was. Others in the room were disturbed by her presence and upset that Jesus would allow this “type of woman” to come near.
In fact the response of the owner of the home is recorded in verses 39& 40, “Now when the Pharisee who had invited (Jesus) saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” I can just hear the tone of his voice – ssssssinnerrr!
YOU ARE FORGIVEN
Think about the courage it must of took for this woman to walk inside a house that she did not belong, a place she was not welcome, and with feelings of guilt and shame. It was in this moment that Jesus spoke over her the “THREE GREATEST WORDS” “Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” (verses 48)
Like this woman you may feel shame and guilt because of things you’ve done, but just like this woman Jesus has forgiven you. You are forgiven! No matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been Jesus paid the price for your sin, Jesus died on the cross for the sins of every person who has ever lived or who will ever live.
1John 2:2 tells us, “[Jesus] is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” His resurrection is proof that God accepted the sacrifice of Jesus as payment in full for your forgiveness. Jesus came, “Not to condemn the world, but to save it.” (John 3:17) There is now no condemnation, guilt, and shame for those who belong to Christ. (Romans 8:1) The three greatest words we all need to hear are – You are forgiven!
ACCEPTING-FORGIVENESS
While Jesus offers everyone forgiveness and salvation, unfortunately not everyone accepts it. You must receive and accept His gift of forgiveness. I don’t know where you are spiritually. You may have received the gift of salvation, but have not accepted the fullness of God’s grace and forgiveness; or, perhaps you’ve never received Christ into your life. Whatever spiritual state you’re in I have Good News – God offers Total Forgiveness for anyone who will accept it – anytime and for any sin.
Today, allow God to wash the hurt and regret from the mistakes in your life. Accept His free gift of grace and forgiveness. Don’t continue to carry around a load of guilt and shame for sin that God has already forgiven? Hear – the three greatest words – you are forgiven, and receive it today!
“Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.” Psalm 32:2 (NIV)
