For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Rom 5:6-8)The "But God" here is in contrast to the apparent impossibility of anyone ever dying for the ungodly. Maybe a good man, but not ... sinners like us. Yet ... God the Son did. Note, as a matter of importance, why He did: to demonstrate His own love toward us. He says, "If while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life" (Rom 5:10). "Enemies of God." He died ... for His enemies ... in order to demonstrate ... His love.
Jesus said, "He who is forgiven little, loves little" (Luke 7:47), speaking of the woman who was forgiven much and loved much. I think it might be beneficial sometimes for us to recall what we've been forgiven. I think a reminder of the great love with which He loves us (Eph 2:4) is important for us. I think it's good for us to think back to the "sinner" and "enemies of God" status that we were in when He saved us. Remembering His love and His forgiveness should drive us toward greater love, greater gratitude, and greater forgiveness, and that's a very good thing.
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When I pray for the forgiveness of my sins, I often find myself ending in complete amazement at the forgiveness offered to me, acknowledging that I'm sure I haven't even repented for half the sins I've committed. But God is rich in mercy and grace!
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