The act of repentance is one of the core values of Christianity. The Lord calls his people to bring their sins before him, and to not hide in shame. God is good and gracious, he wants to forgive and make his children new.  

Read these verses to remember the importance of repentance and humility before the Lord.  

Acts 3:19 

“Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away.” 

2 Chronicles 30:9 

“For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you.” 

2 Peter 3:9

“The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.” 

Matthew 9:13 

“For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” 

James 4:8 

“Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” 

Luke 15:7 

“Similarly, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!” 

Mark 1:15 

“The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!” 

Acts 2:38 

“Peter replied, ‘Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’” 

Psalm 51:10-12 

“Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.”  

Joel 2:13 

“Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead. Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish.”  

A team of over 100 leading biblical scholars meticulously translated the best Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic texts into the contemporary English of the New Living Translation (NLT), blending the highest accuracy with exceptional clarity. The result is the accurate, understandable, and audibly enjoyable Bible translation that you can trust and easily apply to your life. Learn more on the official NLT website: NewLivingTranslation.com.