30th May 2026

Parting Words

“The Lord is not . . . willing that any should perish

but that all should come to repentance.

2 Peter 3:9 

Today's Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 12:1, 19–24.

An old minister, who was about to die had a message for the people he would leave behind. Known for advocating reconciliation, said, “Repentance is the only way back to God. Unless you repent, you will all perish.”

These words mirror the language of the Lord Jesus and many other people in the Bible. Christ said, “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3). The apostle Peter said, “Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19).

Much earlier in Scripture, we read the words of yet another person who desired that his people would turn to God. In his farewell address “to all Israel” (1 Samuel 12:1), the prophet, priest and judge Samuel said, “Do not be afraid. You have done . . . evil; yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart” (v 20). This was his message of repentance—to turn from evil and follow God wholeheartedly.

We all sin and miss the mark of God's standard. So we need to repent, which means to turn away from sin and turn to Jesus Christ, who forgives us and empowers us to follow Him. Let us each heed the words of Samuel, who recognised how God can use the power of repentance to change us into people He can use for His honour.

Prayer: Dear God, guide me to true repentance. Please help me to recognise my sin and put my total trust in the saving power of Jesus Christ, Your Son. Amen.