Recognizing the part you have played in your own story is the first step toward repentance. We are quick to turn on each other when things don't go as we would have hoped, blaming everything and everyone around us. We spend all our energy trying to diagnose, assess, and understand our situation without ever acknowledging the part we played in getting here. Sometimes it’s not that someone sold you a lie, but that you failed to recognize it as one. It wasn’t that a situation appeared to be an oasis, but that you didn't recognize it wasn't where you were meant to be.

The moment you overcome yourself and become honest about the role you have played, your journey shifts. Bitterness and anger toward others begin to fall away, and a dislike for your environment starts to dissipate. You recognize your shortcomings and see how you misjudged situations.

This is why the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) is so vital to our walk of faith. It was at the point of recognition and acceptance of where he went wrong that led to his redemption and salvation. Even from afar, he was recognized, embraced, and celebrated by his father.

This should be our story as well. No matter how far we have wandered, if we will stop justifying ourselves and recognize our part, He is right there to embrace us and welcome us home. As it says in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Do not seek to be justified in your life. Instead, pause and recognize your way to redemption. You will find that He is waiting, saying: "Come to Me, all who are heavy laden and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

RECOGNIZE YOUR WAY TO REDEMPTION