When I managed a Christian radio station several years ago, I had the chance to visit a prison where some of the most notorious criminals were incarcerated. The station had become a favorite of many Christian inmates. One wrote, “It’s the talk of the yard!”

I sat through the rousing chapel service and shared my testimony, which was nowhere near as dramatic as theirs. Many of these men faced a future behind bars – for life. However, what struck me was their intense joy in experiencing Christ’s forgiveness. No matter what their crime, they were free in God’s eyes.

Just like these men, God’s forgiveness should ignite in us that same energized joy and gratitude. Christ’s death on the cross has given you the amazing gift of forgiveness for any and every sin you’ve committed. Jesus has freed you from the penalty of sin. Forgiveness is the key that opens the prison door.

Living in the freedom of forgiveness is something that many believers struggle with. We know we’re forgiven, but we don’t feel like it. We’re still carrying around the weight of guilt. It saps our joy. The Christian life isn’t fresh like it should be.

Why is that?

My friend, the full freedom of forgiveness is not just a state of being. It’s a state of living. The loving forgiveness of God should lead us to turn away from sin that plagues us.

When we don’t turn from our sin, we’re missing the point of forgiveness.

Paul said it this way, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!” (Romans 6:1-2 NIV) In other words, since God has already forgiven me, aren’t I free to live the way I want to, even if I know it’s not right?

Your forgiven state of being exists because of the work Jesus did on the cross. What an awesome, encouraging reality.

Your forgiven state of living is like diving into the deep end of the pool on a hot day. You’re fully immersed in the refreshment of that cool, reviving water.

Living in forgiveness means consistently turning from self to God. There’s a word for that. Repentance. It’s one of the most freeing experiences you can know. That’s what those inmates knew. Instead of walking into the tight grip of sin, run away from it into the loving arms of Jesus.

Living in the freedom of forgiveness often means taking courageous next steps. These brave actions can finally release you from the chains of guilt that keep you from enjoying a forgiven life. I’m talking about restitution. Is there something you need to do to restore a relationship? It may range from asking forgiveness to repaying a debt or compensating for damages.

Now might be the time to have a heart-to-heart with Jesus. Yes, God’s forgiveness is freedom from the penalty of sin. It takes a load of guilt off your shoulders. But if you want to experience the full freedom of forgiveness in this world, come to Jesus then go to others to keep the slate clean. And your conscience as well.

I can’t think of anything more encouraging than living in total freedom before God and others.

(From my new devotional, Your Life With God: 30 Days of Encouragement. Available on Amazon).