Remorse vs. Repentance

When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.” So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5

Two men and two very different responses to failure. In the passage immediately before this, Peter emotionally moved to tears, leans into true repentance. Judas does something far different. His response leads directly to his death, while Peter’s response leads to new life.

All men respond to sin. A wise man will consider how he handles the aftermath of poor decision making. It is this choice that separates the outcomes of Peter and Judas. Remorse leads to death while repentance is the way to life.

As you think deeply this week about the events leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus, consider your response. The truth of Jesus will expose you in uncomfortable ways. At that crossroads, choose repentance over remorse.

DO THIS TODAY: Ask Jesus to reveal to you an area of your life that requires repentance.