Children are amazing. We learn much about human nature from children. They are entertaining, yet genuine, as they learn how to navigate life. When a child wants to do something they’re not supposed to do, instinctively they turn away to hide the behavior. When a child is having a selfish fit, often they turn their head and refuse to make eye contact. Even at a young age, they turn away when they don’t want relationship. These gestures demonstrate a level of rebellion against even those who love them most.
Conversely, when a child wants comfort or attention, they will turn toward a caregiver. Often, they will reach out their arms or cling to a caregiver’s leg, hoping that a response will be extended toward them.
Acknowledging and turning toward God leads to growth in relationship and trust.
This turning toward God precedes repentance. Repentance means to be changed because of a complete change of thought and attitude toward sin. Repentance takes place in the heart, the seat of our thoughts, will and attitudes, where true change occurs.
In the New Testament, John the Baptist proclaimed repentance.
Mark 1:4-5
John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 And all the country of Judea was going out to him, and all the people of Jerusalem; and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins.
The first message Jesus declared was repentance.
Mark 1:14-15
Now after John had been taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
Repentance changes our heart to turn away from sin and toward belief.
Peter preached repentance.
Acts 3:19
Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.
Repentance provides refreshing.
Paul preached repentance also.
Acts 26:20
But (Paul) kept declaring both to those of Damascus first, and also at Jerusalem and then throughout all the region of Judea, and even to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds appropriate to repentance.
Repentance changes our behavior.
God is the one who leads us to repentance, changing our attitudes and actions.
Romans 2:4
Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?
God changes us. He gives us the will and the desire to be changed.
Philippians 2:13
For it is God who is working in you both to will and to work according to His good purpose.
Repentance starts in the heart. We turn toward God and respond by acknowledging His sovereignty.