Repentance – Repentance Instead of Retreat (365/29)
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Often, when we mess up our instinct is to pull away. When a harsh word is spoken, a boundary crossed, a truth avoided, instead of reaching out, we grow quiet. We replay excuses, justify ourselves, or hope the discomfort will fade.
In Genesis 3 we see that after their disobedience, Adam and Eve withdrew in fear and hid themselves when they heard the Lord in the garden. But the Lord in love comes looking for them and calls, “Where are you?” (v.9). He invites them to step out of hiding and return to Him. Adam answers with fear and Eve with justification and blame (Genesis 3:8-13).
Sin not only brings disobedience; it trains our hearts to cover, blame, and retreat. However, Christ came “to seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10). Where Adam hid in fear, Christ seeks in love, willingly exposing Himself on the cross so we can step out of hiding and into His grace.
We hide in subtle ways by avoiding prayer, minimizing sin, blaming circumstances, or growing emotionally distant in our relationships. Healing begins when we believe God’s mercy is greater than our shame and respond with repentance instead of retreat.
Pause and Ponder
What does God’s question, “Where are you?” reveal about His heart for sinners?
In what situation am I hiding, defending myself today, instead of coming honestly to Jesus?
Whom can I point to His grace through my story of moving from hiding to healing in Christ?
The crucified and risen Savior invites us into humble repentance and restored relationship with Him.
Thank You Lord, for Your searching love, for carrying my sin on the cross, and for rising to give me new life. When fear and shame tempt me to hide, help me run to You. Amen.
Extended reading: Genesis 3:8–13 (NKJV)
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