What Does Repentance Look Like?

That is why the LORD says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish. Who knows? Perhaps he will give you a reprieve, sending you a blessing instead of this curse. Perhaps you will be able to offer grain and wine to the LORD your God as before. [Joel 2.12-14]

What does repentance look like?

Perhaps it looks similar to what is described here in the writings of the prophet Joel.

Fast, weeping and mourning will follow when we turn to God and genuinely give Him our hearts.

From the description of repentance shown here in Joel, I struggle to see what we call repentance today really fitting that description. We are too busy smiling and having a "blessed time."

Oh, to be sure, there is restoration. I am making no statement otherwise. However, that restoration will not occur except that it follows true repentance.

There is no restoration without repentance just like there is no grace without repentance.

Where did we ever get the false idea that in Christ we have complete restoration without our having first repented? Have we completely ignored the fact that Jesus began His ministry preaching, "Repent, the Kingdom is at hand!"? Have we convinced ourselves that our repentance is as simple as a, "Yeah, yeah, I sinned, I was wrong - now give me the good stuff!" mentality? Really?

We must: 1) turn to God, 2) give Him our hearts, 3) fast, weep and mourn, and, 4) trust in His mercy and compassion.

Why am I so adamant about repentance? Because a quick survey of the church today largely reveals a dead religious system with no real power (the kind that the world cannot deny - like parting the Red Sea).

Father, help us to turn to You and give You our hearts. Help us then to fast and weep and mourn for our treachery and rebellion. I know You are merciful and compassionate...