Moving On – Jennifer Woodley
‘This is then how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.’ 1 John 3:19-20 (NIV).
What a relief God knows everything about us. He knows the worst of us. He knows every harsh word we speak, every judgmental thought we have, every time we become envious, angry, manipulative, sad or dejected. Nothing about us takes God by surprise.
If we live worried that we disappoint God, relax. God does not have unrealistic, idealized expectations of us. As our Creator, God knows exactly how we tick. We can stop looking at our guilt and sin which keeps us stuck. God is not beating us up about our shortcomings, so why are we?
Instead, look at the face of God and receive His forgiveness. The enemy belittles and accuses, however, God loves, forgives and accepts us as we are. God sees us as His beloved. Always. God is much greater and more merciful than we are on ourselves. What will it take for us to see ourselves this way too?
There is a higher courtroom for the human heart: it is where grace is enthroned. God sees beyond the sin of the moment and to the holy affections of love in those who refuse to turn away from Him. When we accept His loving forgiveness, we will cease punishing ourselves through guilt, blame and self-condemnation. We can then forgive ourselves and move on.
‘Father, you always love me. Help me to forgive myself just as that you have generously forgiven me. Thank you.’
Jennifer is an Australian freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others on their faith journey through writing and mentoring. Contact | 
