2 Kings 24:4

Jehoiakim was an evil King of Judah. He was so bad that when Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon invaded Jerusalem and slaughtered and imprisoned Jews, Jehoiakim defected and joined the enemy camp.

Now, to his credit, he did change his mind and ended up rebelling against King Nebuchadnezzar. But it was too little, too late. He had shed so much innocent blood, nothing he did – not a change of mind or making better choices – could erase his guilt.

I have to say this verse didn’t sit well with me this morning. It says God refused to forgive him. That didn’t sound like the God I know. While I sat here asking God to make this verse make sense a thought came to mind. “Do you see repentance anywhere here?”

Oh, Jehoiakim changed his mind. He changed his actions. But it doesn’t say he changed his heart. Big difference.

I think there are a lot of people who pray a prayer, start making better choices, give to the poor, volunteer at the hospital, and start going to church who think they are saved. However, without repentance, without a humble change of heart, there is no salvation.

Listen to what Scripture says about that:

Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out. (Acts 3:19)

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promises as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)

From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 4:17)

Google what the Bible says about repentance. There are a lot more verses than these that show the necessity of true repentance for salvation.

So here is what I believe God would have us consider today: there are people God refuses to forgive.

You can’t go to God and say, “My bad,” then continue in sin and expect to be forgiven. You can’t change your mind and suddenly be a philanthropist or a member of the church choir and expect God to forgive your sins. He’s very clear.

No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. (Luke 13:13)

People will see the result of your repentance in your changed lifestyle, attitude, actions. But unless you repent, turn from, submit to God from your heart, your changed lifestyle, attitude, and actions aren’t enough to erase your sins.

Repent. Otherwise God will refuse to forgive.

And I promise you, if and when you do repent, they throw a party in heaven rejoicing over your decision. You are forgiven! Your life will never be the same!