10 October | Teens
«Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.» Acts 2: 38
Repentance is a word that may sound a bit serious, but it is very important in the Christian life. To repent means to change direction, like when you're walking somewhere but realize you're on the wrong path and decide to turn back. In the biblical context, repentance is recognizing our mistakes and deciding to follow a better path, the path that God has planned for us. Now, I need to draw your attention to something very important! You and I are sinners, that is, we like to do the wrong thing. When we feel the urge to do something good, to do what is right, or when we repent of something, it means that God is at work in our lives, through the Holy Spirit.
In today's verse, Peter tells people about Jesus and how they need to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins. If we feel the urge to ask for forgiveness, to mark the beginning of our journey with Jesus through baptism, it is God speaking to your heart! Don't harden your heart to the work of the Spirit! I know that many of the readers of this devotional are young, but know that baptism is part of our spiritual journey. It's the moment when you demonstrate to the whole world that you always want to walk in Jesus' ways. That you accept Him as your personal Savior. If at some point you feel the urge to be baptized, talk to your parents and prepare for that moment! Remember, God is always waiting for you with open arms.
Take Action
Make a list of things you would like to change in your life. It could be a habit, an attitude or something that you know doesn't please God. Pray about each item on the list, asking God to help you repent and change. And if you already feel like getting baptized, why not start a Bible study to prepare for this very special moment?