Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord . . . (Acts 3:19)
In this passage, Peter opens our eyes to the divine process the Lord employs to lead His children to a clean and free life. That process begins with conviction, which occurs when the Holy Spirit exposes us for the sinners we are. Conviction then leads us to confession, as the process moves to our speech, and we verbally agree with God about what He's shown us. Confession leads us to repentance, where we turn around and walk a new way, and we learn to work righteousness instead of mischief. Then comes restoration, where we redeem lost time and squandered resources, and we come into right standing with God and His people. Finally, we experience times of refreshing, and the Holy Spirit leads us into the sweetness of God’s pleasure and favor.
When Peter speaks of "conversion," it is more than the simple act of being saved. Salvation is a sovereign act of God, not a decision made by men. We are saved because of what Jesus did on Calvary, not because we "accepted Christ." He accepted us. Conversion is the change we experience once we step fully into the life God offers us in Christ. When we are truly converted, He changes everything about us and everything within us. We become heavenly-minded, and worldly things lose their grip. This is the new life He promises; a life that is overflowing with the blessings, peace, and purpose of God. This is the life He gives to us and through us freely, if we will simply believe in Him. This is your life. "Repent therefore and be converted . . ."
Let's Pray - Father God, I want all You have for me, so I turn to You for everything necessary to live a godly life. Change me, Lord. Thank You for Your Spirit. In Jesus alone, Amen.
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