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August 1 Daily Devotional

Godly and Worldly Sorrow for Sin

Peter G. Feenstra

For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. 2 Corinthians 7:10

Bible Reading

2 Corinthians 7:1–12

Devotional

What is the difference between godly and worldly sorrow for sin? A worldly sorrow for sin regrets what has happened because of the harm it causes oneself. A person that has a worldly sorrow for sin worries about the negative impact of getting caught. What will this do to his reputation and future? He is not concerned about how his behaviour offends the Lord.

A woman caught shoplifting may express remorse for what she has done. If she has a worldly sorrow for sin, she may shed the appropriate tears, confess her guilt and apologize, but deep inside she is more concerned about the consequences of getting caught. She feels horrible and ashamed, but has she experienced true repentance? A man may feel guilty because his addiction to sexual sins has been uncovered. If he has a selfish sorrow for sin he will try to justify his behaviour, drum up excuses and blame his circumstances.

The impact our sins have on the lives of our victims should never be minimized. However, our deepest regret and sorrow should be that we have sinned against God. Our sorrow for sin should be genuine, whether we get caught or not. Tue repentance is concerned about God, His honour, holiness and glory. Worldly sorrow may result in changed behaviour. An alcoholic may be so afraid of losing his job and his family that he never touches another drink. A husband may attempt to get his temper under control in fear of losing his wife and children. Worldly sorrow with a religious twist will often go hand in hand with self-righteousness and false humility.

2 Corinthians 7:10 tells us plainly: worldly sorrow produces death. Worldly sorrow leads to destruction even if the sinful action itself no longer continues. True repentance means that there will be so much more than changed behaviour. More important than behavioural change is the change that must take place in your heart. When you experience a true and fundamental change of heart, then you will know a whole-hearted joy in the Lord. A renewed and changed heart puts a song on your lips. You can sing for joy, praising God for salvation accomplished in Christ. A contrite heart is thrilled to hear the sound of the gospel.

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