What is relevant for us in all of this is embodied in the word sin. Just as Grianne lived a long life of evil deeds so have we. Cosmic treason is the way R.C. Sproul so eloquently labeled our sins. Brooks writes fiction, but we create non-fiction. There were lasting consequences for that character, and so too for us. When in conviction we grasp that, a real problem hits home; one for which we cannot provide an effective solution.
Think back to the gospels where Jesus reminded the Pharisees how it was the sick who needed the doctor. Jesus also said the those cleansed of great sin are the most thankful. It is people like this who are all too aware of their need for washing. When such a person kneels at the cross the cords which bind the load are cut and away it falls. Is that not a testimony? It is a thing which works. The one who feels it best is the cleansed one who stands back up ready to run and jump, breathe easy and go forth.
The water testimony–for your tendencies
The person who jumps up from the foot of the cross is in for a rude awakening. The lightening of a burden is like being able to breath easy again. There is a problem, though, lurking despite the forgiveness: instincts, tendencies. They will raise their ugly head, and more sin will happen.
“When I want to do good evil is right there beside me,” said Paul. He also told us in that same letter to the Romans, “I did not know what it was to covet until the law came. Then I saw it, and it rose ugly and ready to play.” Of course, those are serious paraphrases, but the point is there. Guilt removed is but part of the story. The washing of rebirth is another.
When we ask God for help in this attitude or that and it comes is this not a testimony? Our inclinations and instincts change under the influence of the Holy Spirit. We are washed to the point of desire change. There is a great advantage in that. Release from the unholy, inner sparks that grind is of great value. Who knows this value but the soul saved, the soul rescued. There is freedom in this too.
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