How easy it is for fallen people to claim that God is not being fair in the way that He deals with us! Our natural eyes are so blind, and our natural minds are so darkened that we always imagine we are the aggrieved party, even when our own sin has landed us in trouble. God will judge each of us on the basis of our individual, spiritual connection to Christ and on our personal behavior.

Ezekiel 18:31 speaks to Israel collectively and to each of us individually about renewal. The verse reads: "Cast away from you all your transgressions, in which you have transgressed; and make yourself a new heart and a new spirit: for why will you die, house of Israel?".

This verse emphasizes the need for personal responsibility and repentance. It calls for the Israelites and us to actively reject their and our sinful behaviors and seek a transformation of the heart and spirit. The "new heart" and "new spirit" signify an inner change that aligns with God's will, reflecting a complete renewal.

This theme of renewal is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Ezekiel 36:26-27, where God promises to give His people a heart of flesh instead of stone. This transformation is essential for living a life that pleases God and aligns with His will.

Casting away from our transgressions involves a process of repentance, transformation, and renewal. Here are some steps to help us achieve this:

Acknowledge and Confess: The first step is to recognize and admit your sins. Confession is crucial as it brings your transgressions into the light and allows you to seek forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Repentance: True repentance goes beyond mere confession. It involves a heartfelt turning away from sin and a commitment to change. Acts 3:19 encourages us to "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."

Seek Forgiveness: Ask God for forgiveness and believe in His promise to forgive. Psalm 103:12 assures us, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us."

Renew Your Mind: Transform your thinking by focusing on God's Word and His promises. Romans 12:2 advises, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Embrace a New Heart and Spirit: As mentioned in Ezekiel 18:31, "Cast away from you all your transgressions, in which you have transgressed; and make yourself a new heart and a new spirit." This involves allowing God to transform your inner being, aligning your heart and spirit with His will.

Live a Life of Obedience: Commit to living according to God's commandments and teachings. This ongoing process of sanctification helps you grow in holiness and resist future temptations.

By following these points, we can cast away our transgressions and experience the renewal and transformation that comes from a close relationship with God.

Here’s a “nugget for the noggin:” Close, closer, closest. Where am I in my relationship with the living God?

Stay strong and be blessed.