The Story

A believer can still have a hard heart. We may be saved by the blood of Christ and still resist listening when God exposes sin in our lives. The Holy Spirit warns us with mercy. When he convicts us, it is not because God wants to harm us. It is because he loves us too much to let sin quietly deceive and destroy us. Jesus Christ died for sinners with hard hearts and blind eyes. The cross gives us hope. When sin is exposed, we do not need to defend ourselves; we can repent because grace receives those who return to God. Listen today to the Spirit's warning through the Word, through brothers and sisters, and through conviction of heart. Do not delay repentance. 'Today' is mercy from God calling us back to Christ. Prayer Merciful Father, I praise you because you warn your children to bring them back to the path of life. Forgive me for hardening my heart, defending myself, and refusing the warning of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for Jesus Christ, who died for sinners blind to their own sin. Holy Spirit, open my eyes, soften my heart, and lead me to repentance today. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.