Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out. Acts 3:19
The word “repent” is defined by Merriam Webster as: to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one’s life. GotQuestions.org says in the Bible “repent” means to change one’s mind.
Repentance is not just regretting past sins, or a sense of being sorry. To repent means to commit to changing not just our behavior, but our thoughts.
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38
Repentance occurs, sometimes dramatically, when a person is saved by the grace of God through the atoning death of Jesus. But that is not the end of repentance in a Christian’s life. We should repent everyday, bringing to mind any known sins, in thought or action. We should also daily repent of those sins we commit unintentionally. Repentance should be a regular part of our prayer life. As we repent, our minds are changed supernaturally through the Holy Spirit. As we work out our sanctification synergistically with God, studying scripture, communing with God daily, and coming to know Him more intimately, we will be led to discover more and more sins we need to repent for. Thank you Lord for the gift of repentance, through which we are able to renew our minds and change our lives to Glorify You.