If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9
In the United States, when catastrophes such as earthquakes, flooding, or forest fires strike, I have noticed that those most affected usually clamor for the government to declare it a disaster. I used to wonder why this happened, but eventually I learned that a formal declaration is necessary to free up federal aid. Only then can funds for rebuilding, repairing, and replacing lost inventory be released.
Once the disaster is declared, relief workers do not just drive around in trucks handing out fistfuls of cash to the locals. Subsequent to a declaration of disaster, each individual seeking assistance must make a personal declaration of losses, and also give an outline of a plan for restoration. The question is asked, “How much did you lose, and what are your intentions for rebuilding?” That only makes sense—if funds are set aside for disaster aid, then it is reasonable to require such a declaration before it is granted.
There is a parallel between government rules for disaster aid and the rules God made for our salvation from spiritual disaster. A catastrophe occurred in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve ate the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Man became responsible for his actions, and as a result the disaster was indisputable: “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Yet, God is good; seeing our destitution, He has provided the aid we need. Jesus died on the Cross for us and salvation is available to all mankind.
However, there is another step that must come first—the personal declaration. We must confess our sins and demonstrate our intention to amend our ways. These are actions that show we really are repentant, and they are required before we can receive God’s assistance.
There is one stark contrast between government disaster relief and God’s plan for spiritual restoration. The government gives a low-cost loan that requires eventual repayment; God’s plan involves no repayment. And in fact, He always has sufficient funds to cover our needs—everything is included in His emergency plan.
For national disaster assistance go to: http://www.fema.gov and click on “Apply for Assistance.”
For spiritual disaster assistance go to: 1 John 1:9 and drop on your knees.