The word "repentance" in the New Testament means "to change one’s way of life as the result of a complete change of thought and attitude with regard to sin and righteousness."
1) Repentance produces change, whereas remorse merely produces sorrow, which is often confused with repentance.
2) Many of us have never really made a firm decision to change, and that’s why we have no enduring victory in our lives.
3) Remorse enslaves us in sorrow that engulfs us emotionally and leaves us feeling sad, depressed, hopeless, and unchanged.
4) Guilt is a prison that keeps us perpetually bound and unchanged.
5) Regret is self-pity that is focused more on our own personal loss than on the pain or loss we cause to others or to the heart of God, and it leaves us unchanged.
6) Repentance is a quality decision to change, and when genuine repentance occurs in our heart and mind, we can be sure the Holy Spirit will release His power to effect change in our life and lead us to freedom.
7) We must become unwilling to tolerate sin in any area of our lives.
8) We must align our thoughts and imaginations with the Lord so we can stay in step with His Spirit and in sync with His Word.
9) Our thoughts and desires must become conformed to the mind of Jesus Christ and agreeable to His will.
10) True repentance brings personal change and transformation.
11) Repentance requires change and transformation, not remorse, regret, and sorrow.
12) The person that has repented has a complete change in the way they think, live, or behave.
13) Repentance is a mental choice to leave a life of sin, flesh, and selfishness, and turn toward God with your whole heart and mind in order to follow Jesus.
14) God requires repentance.
15) Repentance is a conversion to truth so deep that it results in a total life change.
If the Holy Spirit is dealing with you about something that needs to change in your life, repent right now at this very moment, regardless of what you do or do not feel. God is waiting on your decision.
