Discovering the Power of Being Found and Forgiven

Life on earth often feels like a winding path through a dense forest. Its easy to lose your way, but sometimes, you find a clearing bathed in light. The journey of faith seems like it is the same way at first. Being found and forgiven by Jesus Christ are two powerful experiences that transform the heart and soul if you allow Him to. Jesus is a gentleman who will never force Himself upon you. Though we dealt harshly with Him, He is gentle with us. Christ's transformation is not a distant hope but a present reality waiting to embrace you.

Embracing the Journey of Being Found and Forgiven

To be found is to be seen, known, and welcomed back from the shadows of this world by God. To be forgiven is to be released from the weight and responsibility of past, present, and future sins and given a fresh start, a clean slate. “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit.” (Psalm 32:1-2) Together, these experiences offer a profound sense of peace and freedom. Jesus invites you to step into this new life filled with hope and purpose that can only be found in Him.

Imagine a shepherd searching tirelessly for a lost sheep. When the sheep is found, the joy is overwhelming (Luke 15:3-7). This illustration mirrors the spiritual truth that no matter how far you have wandered, you can always be found and forgiven. It is a gentle reminder that you are never beyond the reach of grace (Romans 8:38-39).

Practical steps to embrace this journey:

• Reflect on your life: Take time to honestly consider where you have been and where you want to go. Just remember not to dwell in the past, it doesn't define you anymore, Christ does. (Philippians 3:13)

• Seek connection: Find a community that supports your spiritual growth in Christ. (Hebrews 10:25)

• Open your heart: Allow yourself to receive forgiveness, healing, and a relationship with your Creator. (Revelation 3:20)

• Take small steps: Growth happens gradually; celebrate each moment of progress and thank God through it all. That is sanctification through the power of the Holy Spirit working in your life. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

  
  

Understanding the Impact of Being Found and Forgiven

The power of being found and forgiven is transformative. It changes how you see God, yourself, and others; it breaks the chains of guilt and shame, replacing them with confidence and love; and sets our feet on the firm foundation that is the Gospel Truth (Matthew 7:24-27). However, this transformation is not just internal, it trickles down into your daily life and relationships.

“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.”

- Hebrews 10:22

When you experience forgiveness, you learn to forgive yourself. This process can be easier said than done. Knowing your own deepest, darkest secrets can keep you from truly believing that God forgives you, because perhaps, you believe that you cannot forgive yourself. The guilt and shame that you feel over your past can hold you back from fully forgiving yourself, but if you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you have already been forgiven by the Father! If He can forgive you, why are you not able to forgive yourself? (Romans 8:1-2)

While it is healthy to mourn and regret your sin, it is not healthy to wallow in the stench of victimhood. See, God does not lie. When He says, “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” (Isaiah 43:25) and “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Numbers 23:19) He means it! If He says He has forgiven you, then you are forgiven. We can trust God to be honest, we can trust Him to be faithful. The Bible repeats the command to "trust God" over 150 times.

Trusting in the Lord of Heaven's Armies opens the door to healthier choices and deeper connection with Him. Being found means Jesus cares enough about you to call you by your name. You are part of a larger story that values you deeply.

Here are some ways this impact can show up in your life:

• Godly assurance: You begin to see yourself as valuable and loved because of your identity in Christ. (See the Book of Ephesians)

• Stronger relationships: Forgiveness softens hearts, mends broken bonds, and produces more joy. (Ephesians 4:32)

• Greater peace: Anxiety, guilt, shame, and regret lose their grip. (Philippians 4:6-7)

• Motivation to serve: Feeling found inspires you to help others find their way. (Ephesians 2:10)

  
  

But remember, this is a process. It takes time and patience; work and dedication to Christ; trusting and believing, but every step forward is a victory worth celebrating. Trust in the Lord to transform your heart and care for you,

What does Matthew 25:40 really mean?

Matthew 25:40 says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This passage invites us to see Jesus in every person we meet, especially those in need. It challenges us to live out our faith through acts of kindness and tenderhearted mercy.

Being found and forgiven is not just about receiving grace; it is also about extending it. When you understand this passage, you realize that your faith calls you to action. Helping others is a way to honor Jesus because of the forgiveness you have received.

How to live this out practically:

1. Look for needs around you: Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. (Luke 6:35)

2. Volunteer your time or resources: Find local or online opportunities to serve. (Matthew 25:35-39)

3. Practice empathy: Listen and respond with a compassionate heart. (Romans 12:15)

4. Share your story: Your journey of being found and forgiven can inspire others. (1 Peter 3:15)

5. What is your purpose?: Ask God what were you created to do. Let Him lead you into your calling. (James 1:5)

   
   

Matthew 25:40 reminds us that faith is alive when it moves beyond words into loving deeds.

How to Grow in Faith After Being Found and Forgiven

Growth in faith is like the Holy Spirit tending a garden. It requires care, patience, the right environment and you can't always see the growth right away. After experiencing the power of being found and forgiven, the next step is to let Him nurture that new life within you.

Here are some practical ways to grow:

• Daily prayer and meditation: Connect with God regularly to deepen your relationship. (Matthew 7:7)

• Read scripture: Let God's Word guide and inspire your heart and life. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

• Join a community: Find support and encouragement with others on the same path. (John 13:34)

• Serve others: Put your faith into action through service. (1 Peter 4:10)

• Reflect regularly: Take time to consider how you are growing and where you need support. (Joshua 1:8)

  
  

Following Jesus is not about perfection but progress. Celebrate each moment of learning and transformation.

Finding Support When You Feel Alone

Sometimes, the path can feel lonely. When you give your life to Christ, friends and family may alienate, slander, gossip, or even become annoyed with you. You might wonder if anyone understands your new life or if you can truly belong anywhere. (Matthew 5:11) This is where the power of belonging to Jesus shines brightest. You are never truly alone. We believers, have one another, and we have the Holy Spirit.

Tips for finding support:

• Reach out online: Many communities offer virtual groups and resources.

• Attend local gatherings: If possible, find a church or group that feels like home.

• Ask for prayer: Sharing your needs can bring comfort and strength.

• Keep learning: Explore books, podcasts, and articles that inspire you or check out our resources page.

  
  

www.foundandforgiven.org

Key Practice: Develop Christian Friendships

Seek Mentorship and AccountabilityWhen you begin your journey as a new believer in Jesus Christ, one of the most valuable steps you can take is to build relationships with other Christians who will encourage your spiritual growth. God never intended for us to walk this journey of faith alone. The Bible teaches that believers thrive when connected to others who can guide, support, and challenge them in love.Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another”. This v

Stepping Forward with Hope and Confidence

Being found and forgiven is the beginning of a beautiful journey. God opens doors to new possibilities and a deeper sense of peace. As you move forward, carry this truth with you: you are loved, you are valued, and you are never alone.

Take each day as an opportunity to grow, serve, and shine your light (Matthew 5:14-16). Let the power of being found and forgiven by the Savior of the world guide your steps and fill your heart with hope.

Your story may be full of pain and turmoil, but the God who finds and forgives you has overcome it all. Embrace Christ fully, and watch how your life transforms in ways you have never imagined.

May He bring you more peace, grace, and joy.

References:

New International Version Bible. (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978)