1 John 1:9 Restoration from the Burning of Sin
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (KJV).
This tree branch suffered burning from a forest fire at Sunset Crater National Monument in northern Arizona last year, but, as you can see, the center was preserved intact. The outer layers of the limb protected the inside, insulated it from the vast heat that enveloped the outside. Jesus did so much more for us on the cross. He not only protected us, He cleansed us from sin. While this limb did die because the tree was felled by the fire, we have more protection. When we confess and repent, our sins are forgiven as if they had never happened. No dark ring of burned matter is found on our bodies, our souls, or our spirits. Jesus accepted all of that burning upon Himself. Father God sees no sin in the heart, soul, or spirit of the believer who has asked Jesus to forgive his sins, so He has no reason to ban him from His side or even from His throne room. If fact, because of our relationship with Jesus, He welcomes us with open arms into His presence forever. All the good that God has prepared for us is available for our enjoyment and blessing.