Repentance VS Regret

Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages:
2 Corinthians 6	2 Corinthians 7	Leviticus 22	Leviticus 23

Paul speaks of the difference between repentance and regret in 2 Corinthians 7:10-16. The Corinthians had grieved over their immoral behavior and it had led to repentance which produced renewed joy. Had they simply regretted their behavior it would only have produced grief over their actions which Paul says could lead to death. In contrast to the repentance experienced by the Corinthians who were renewed in their faith and their joy, there is the example of Judas who betrayed Christ, then regretted his actions leading to a deep remorse and grief which led to suicide.

What is the difference between the Corinthians and Judas? Both admitted their wrong and yet the outcome for each was very different. The difference was repentance. Repentance is more than admitting or confessing one's wrong. Judas admitted his wrong but only regretted his actions. Repentance is also more than turning away from one's wrong or sin determining not to continue in it. Again, Judas no doubt also turned away from his wrong. Not that he could have betrayed Jesus again, but in his regret, had he the opportunity to do it over he would not have betrayed Jesus.

The key difference between repentance and regret is to whom we turn with our repentance. It is to God we take our repentance, agreeing with His will and His purpose for us and determining to turn away from our wrong actions. But even this is not the completion of repentance. Repentance is complete when God forgives us and our joy is restored and we are renewed in spirit and in relationship with our Maker. Only the believer who has experienced repentance and forgiveness can understand the full impact of receiving God's forgiveness and renewal of relationship. It is like walking out of a storm into the sunshine bringing with it a sense of freedom and joy nothing else can produce nor to which anything else can be compared.