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What is it that truly motivates my repentance?  What motivated my original repentance at my conversion?  Peter’s discourse in Acts chapter 3 identifies the motivations for repentance as the forgiveness of sins and the presence of the Lord.  There is no true believer that was not originally motivated by these two truths when they repented (turning from sin to God through Christ) and believed unto salvation.  But as a true believer, is my daily confession and repentance still motivated by these two truths?

I fear, and must honestly admit, that my ongoing repentance for sin is not always purely motivated.  I have times when I confess and repent motivated by shame (“saving face”), comfort (no more awkward tension in my relationships), greed (want the positive benefits of my relationships back), obligation (this is what is expected of me, so…), pride/false humility (this will make me look good to others), et c.

At least some of the motivations I just listed are good and actual secondary outcomes of genuine repentance, but they must not be the primary motivation of repentance.  My sin is an offense against God, and God alone is the one who can forgive sin.  Without the forgiveness of sin, I can never be in his presence.  Will you help me to not stray from these motivations for repentance?  Can I help you as well?

Praise the LORD, that properly motivated repentance will additionally provide a clear conscience, unhindered relationships, freedom from guilt and shame, blessing and a good reputation.  May we never be seeking shortcuts or alternative routes to what God has for us!