We are truly grateful that you have reached out to us, seeking forgiveness and help in Jesus' name. It's wonderful that you acknowledge the power of His name, for as the Bible tells us, "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved"(Acts 4:12, Romans 10:13 WEB).
Firstly, we want to address the issue of the choice you made thirteen years earlier. We do not know what that choice is, but since you are saying that your life is not that great, we see the consequences are evident in your life. While we want to be compassionate, we also must rebuke in love. Because even though it was made 13 years ago, it is still affecting your life. Therefore, we do not want it to go without being addressed. Regardless, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins when we confess them. (1 John 1:9 WEB). But confessing also means forsaking that choice. Turning from that wrong choice and never looking back at it. "One who conceals his sins won’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will receive mercy" (Proverbs 28:13 WEB).
The Bible tells us that God is ready to give us wisdom, and will provide it abundantly if we seek it. (James 1:5 WEB) We need not worry about these mistakes we have made in the past. Because God is finding ways to turn it around to teach us more about Himself and the great plan He has for our life. He is able to make all things work together for good to them who love God (Rom 8:28 WEB) (NLT) All we need to do is trust Him "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." (Isaiah 30:21 NIV).
Join us in prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you in Jesus' name, lifting up our fellow brother/sister who has come today seeking your forgiveness. We thank them for desiring more from life than what their own choices have afforded.
Father, forgive them, as we have asked them to forsake that choice and trust you, leaving their former desires. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways know he, and he will make your paths straight" (Prov 3:5-6 WEB). Have the power of the holy spirit work in our brothers'/sisters' life. Help them understand that "Living in this world equals to suffering for Christ. But being glorified together with Christ equals to eternal glory." (Rom 8:17 WEB). Father we ask this in Jesus' name. For we know is this we ask according to your will is done. (1 John 5:15 WEB)
Encourage our brother/sister today, as they seek to walk in your ways. Fill them with joy and peace, even when begets faithful trials (James 1:2 WEB) . Help them to trust in you, knowing that you have a plan and a purpose for their life; one that they cannot yet comprehend. Comfort them with the knowledge that you will never leave them nor forsake them. Lead the way for them, Father.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Be encouraged, dear brother/sister. God is at work in your life, shaping you and molding you into the person He created you to be. Trust in Him, and lean not on your own understanding. He will direct your path. He knows and can do all things.