The words “I’m sorry” can be liberating or limiting, depending on sincerity. Genuine sorrow can lead to forgiveness, whereas the attitude of “I’m sorry (that I got caught)” produces nothing good. The Bible explains it this way:

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

In the life of faith, there are times when the Holy Spirit reveals things that are amiss in our lives. Scripture passages, internal promptings, and other people’s words can prompt reflective moments, which call for a response. Such was the case with the Corinthian church. When they received Paul’s first letter, they had some things to wrestle with, and they responded with repentance.

In the life of a disciple, those times present the question, “Now what?” Godly sorrow is to agree with the Lord, confess, ask forgiveness, and move on. Worldly sorrow makes excuses, blames others, denies, and eventually continues along the same course. God’s love will prompt us in the right direction if we’re willing to listen, and is part of the sanctifying process. Is there anything you need to agree with Him on today? There is freedom in forgiveness, and joy in moving forward.