Un-cancelled

 I recently heard a devotional comparing the betrayal of Peter and Judas. The theme was about how they both reacted after the betrayal. Peter surrendered himself to God and accepted his mercy. Judas fell into despair believing he was beyond grace.  Judas died in sin. Peter repented and went on to build the church. I realized I don't need to wallow in self-hatred to be forgiven. I can move on once I accept my failure and repent. I am forgiven. Immediately. As Jesus said to the adulteress, "Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more." John 8:11. The devil lost hold as soon as I repented and accepted God's mercy. No sitting in sackcloth needed. Go and sin no more. This is freedom. True freedom. I can't be cancelled by anyone but God. I am forgiven. I know I will stumble and sin again, but that ever flowing grace has got me covered. Not that I want to sin. Once you understand grace and the gift of mercy Jesus gave us on the cross, you want to please him and not sin, but being human, you will sin again. Jesus knew this and still suffered and died for us. How can we not accept this gift? God is good!