“I’m a thief.” Those are very hard words to say. Yet I knew I had to say them. After experiencing the saving grace of Christ in college, I was challenged by the Scripture, I Tim. 1:19. “holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith.”
My conscience wouldn’t let me go. The first stop was a car dealership and confessing I had stolen a new car off their lot years before.
Upon entering the office I asked to speak to the owner. To which the receptionist replied, “May I ask what about?”
“It’s a personal matter, ” I said, palms sweating and stomach churning, I entered the office and the owner asked what I needed to speak about.
“I’m a thief,” I blurted out, “I stole a car from your business several years ago and God has convicted me that I need to ask for forgiveness and make restitution.”
He stood frozen, then a large smile came across his face. Bolting from around his desk he grabbed my hand and said, “I forgive you, and as far as paying back the car, the insurance took care of that years ago.” “You’re free.” He paused and reflected, “You know my kids have been talking to me about Jesus too.”
I left that office walking I’m sure, two feet off the ground. That encounter gave me the faith and strength to go to others and ask for forgiveness. There’s nothing like laying your head on your pillow at night knowing your conscience is clear before God and man. Sleep, peaceful sleep.
Dear God, may we have the strength and faith to set things right as we live before with a clear conscience before You and our fellow man. Thank You for your grace.
In Christ,
Moe Smith