What Was I Thinking

"What was I thinking?" I wonder how many times that phrase has been uttered by us humans? I am sure countless. We ask this rhetorical question following something we should have not done or following after we have eaten something we know we shouldn't have.

Where does this question lead us? Do we change and determine never to do the same inappropriate thing again or is it just a casual, fleeting regret? I wonder if Adam and Eve ever asked this question or if Sampson asked this question following giving up the secret to his strength? What about Jonah when he was in the belly of the whale for three days and nights?

The reality is that we don't have to wonder about these famous bible character's thoughts very long because we have sinned and then, whether internally or verbally, have shouted "what was I thinking!?!" When we worry or we are rude or we get angry or when we use hurtful words or fail to show compassion or _____________ (fill in the blank with whatever you have done that was contrary to the will and character of God).

What is the proper response to our sin? Paul states in 2 Corinthians 7:10 "For godly grief (sorrow over sin) produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief (just simple regret) produces death." Our response to agree with God about our sin and then to confess it leads to forgiveness and cleansing. 1 John 1:9 states "If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

When we have those moments and say to our self "what was I thinking?" may we quickly come to our senses and turn back to the Lord, confess our sin and then receive his forgiveness and cleansing.