Paul taught that “godly sorrow” is required if true repentance is to take place (2 Corin. 7:10). He also taught that not all sorrow is godly and that "wordly sorrow" is a dead end.
Consider the following words of President Ezra Taft Benson: “It is not uncommon to find men and women in the world who feel remorse for the things they do wrong. Sometimes this is because their actions cause them or loved ones great sorrow and misery. Sometimes their sorrow is caused because they are caught and punished for their actions. Such worldly feelings do not constitute ‘godly sorrow’ ( 2 Corinthians 7:10 ). Godly sorrow is a gift of the Spirit. It is a deep realization that our actions have offended our Father and our God. It is the sharp and keen awareness that our behavior caused the Savior, He who knew no sin, even the greatest of all, to endure agony and suffering. Our sins caused Him to bleed at every pore. This very real mental and spiritual anguish is what the scriptures refer to as having ‘a broken heart and contrite spirit’ ( D&C 20:37 ). Such a spirit is the absolute prerequisite for true repentance” ( The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, 72).
It seems like it is really easy to get caught up in the downward spiral of worldly sorrow and waste time feeling terrible. the trick seems to be recognizing where the feelings are coming from and identifying which sorrow you are feeling...and if it is Godly sorrow then letting it work through you and motivate you to repent. if it is not Godly sorrow then it is a WASTE of time, energy, and emotion to allow yourself to dwell in it. Alma 42:29 - And now, my son, I desire that ye should let these things trouble you no more, and only let your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto repentance.
the psalm of nephi also addresses this question. when he reaches the crux he realizes he must rejoice in Christ. it's a really positive message
ReplyDeleteahh, good insight - and a great POSITIVE connection.
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