“But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" — then He said to the paralytic, "Get up, pick up your bed and go home."  (Matthew 9:6)

We are all aware of what it feels like to be overcome with sin.  The Holy Spirit bears down in our spirit with overwhelming conviction.  He presses and points to the sin with specificity.  Guilt begins to take hold.  Restlessness is experienced.  David cried out, “My sin is ever before me” (Psalm 51:3).  We have been there.  Amen?  You may be there today.  We saw yesterday how to be forgiven of sin.  We take that sin to God, repent of that sin and receive God’s forgiveness.  He promises to forgive and cleanse us.  So what does forgiveness feel like?   God cleanses us.  Forgiveness causes us to feel as pure as the driven snow!  God forgives and restores our joy.  Forgiveness feels happy!  God’s forgiveness restores our intimacy with Him.  Forgiveness causes us to once again feel close to the Father!  God’s forgiveness removes the burden of sin.  Forgiveness feels like the weight of the world has been lifted off of our shoulders.  Forgiveness feels peaceful.  Forgiveness feels restful. “In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.”  (Psalm 4:8).  Forgiveness simply feels good!  The paralytic in our opening verse had his sin forgiven.  He picked up his bed and walked home.  I suppose he felt very good that day.  What do you think?

Today is October 30.  How are you feeling today?

Blessings,

Jim