God of the Second Chance

Second chances go by different names—a mulligan, a do-over, a take two, another try, a second shot. Whatever you grew up calling them, you likely called on them whenever you needed another attempt. As children, we used them in games and sports. As adults, we still rely on them in everyday life. At work, we’re often given another opportunity when our first effort falls short. In our relationships, we ask for second chances because we want to do better.

A second chance is really an opportunity granted by someone else—to correct a wrong or make things right.

And everyone needs one from time to time.

“Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each day.”
—Lamentations 3:23

We serve a God of second chances, and that is something we can all be thankful for. There isn’t a single one of us who hasn’t fallen short in our relationship with Him. When we fail in our attempts at life, God doesn’t abandon us—He lifts us up and offers us another chance.

Like the woman caught in adultery, Jesus forgives and then lovingly calls us to live differently: “Go, and sin no more.” Grace is not permission to repeat the mistake; it is power to walk in a new direction.

John reminds us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. In other words, when we come to God honestly—without excuses or pretense—He willingly gives us a second chance. Honesty is the key.

So the next time you drop the ball or miss the mark, come to God with an open heart and open arms. He will meet you with mercy. He will offer you another chance—because that is who He is.

With Gratitude, Pastor Jesse