“He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12, Holy Bible, New Living Translation). A questionnaire lists options to circle or check physical ailments. “Have you or anyone else in your family ever had. . . ?” followed by medical conditions.…
As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:12, Holy Bible, New King James Version)
Transgression is synonymous with disobedience, misbehavior, wrongdoings, offenses, and indiscretions. Most of us try to forget unpleasant events that hint at transgressions. The Psalmist could have measured the distance to the sun or the moon, but seeing them would remind us of our sins. Instead, he speaks symbolically with the greatest distance he can imagine, from east to west, so far that our past sins are invisible.
Apostle Paul makes an even stronger statement of how God, the great forgiver, sees our past.
“For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” (Hebrews 8:12, NKJV)
Now that’s complete forgiveness.
Prayer: Lord, when I remember my transgressions before Your forgiveness, I rejoice that You do not. Amen.
Devotion by Violet Carr Moore
“He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12, Holy Bible, New Living Translation).
A questionnaire lists options to circle or check physical ailments. “Have you or anyone else in your family ever had. . . ?” followed by medical conditions. A driver’s license application questions, “Have you ever lost consciousness except during surgery?” Financial forms demand an answer to “Have you ever filed bankruptcy?” Employment applications include “Have you ever been convicted of a felony?”
EVER! Ever becomes forever―never to be erased―always demanding a response. When Jesus forgives your sins, He expunges “Have you ever?” With Him, yesterday is gone. Today is a new day; a fresh start.
Prayer: Thank You Lord for removing my past mistakes and giving me a fresh start. Amen.
Devotion by Violet Carr Moore