How long should a person have to suffer the consequences of their actions? For Australian cricket fans, surely the consensus is only a year, now that Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft have returned to the cricket fold in time for the Ashes series.
The ball-tampering act that was initially deemed “unforgivable” by the cricketing community has produced an incredible tale of soul-searching, compassion, and redemption for these three men. The story of Steve Smith, in particular, has been inspiring on and off the field, with his admittance of wrongdoing coupled by his return to impeccable batting form.
In fact, in the first innings of the Fourth Test, Smith bolstered his already dazzling form with a double century, an amazing feat following two other centuries in his last four innings for Australia. His efforts helped guide the Australian side to a historic victory, retaining the Ashes for the first time on English soil in 18 years.
The story of redemption and second chances is one that will always inspire and encourage.
The Bible records the stories of many people’s crimes and misdemeanors for posterity. But it also tells of God’s forgiveness, of how people were given a second chance. And a third, and a fourth . . .
We read of Abraham, who feared for his life and kept his marriage secret, which could have endangered his wife Sarah. We read of Jacob, Moses, Samson, Jonah, David, Peter, and many more who committed crimes or messed up their lives badly. Not just with small acts, but with murder, adultery, betrayal, deception, and more. Yet, when they confessed and repented of their sin, they were not only completely forgiven, but also redeemed to fulfil God’s purposes.
Micah 7:18–19 says: “Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.”
These words give comfort and hope to all of us who have made mistakes and messed up in life. We can rejoice that God will never abandon us because of our sins, if we ask Him for forgiveness. Our God gives second chances to all who seek Him.
1 John 1:8-9 says: “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
We pray these truths might help you to seek God’s grace and forgiveness in the areas of your life where you need a second chance. Or perhaps there is someone you know who you need to give a second chance?
