Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Neil L. Andersen on Forgiveness Being a Gift One Cannot Legally Merit

  

Forgiveness Is a Gift

 

We must remember, however, that the divine gift of forgiveness can never be earned; it can only be received. Yes, commandments must be obeyed and ordinances observed to receive forgiveness, but personal effort, no matter how great, pales in comparison to the cost of redemption. In fact, there is no comparison.

 

Forgiveness is a gift, and the only One who can give the gift is the Redeemer and Savior of the world, Jesus Christ (see Romans 5:1–12 and especially 15–18; see also Romans 6:23; 2 Corinthians 9:15; Ephesians 2:8). He offers His priceless gift willingly to all who turn to Him to receive it (see Doctrine and Covenants 88:33).

 

As President Nelson has said, “[The Savior’s] Atonement [is able to] redeem every soul from the penalties of personal transgression, on conditions that He [has] set.”4

 

Let us rejoice in the journey! Our Heavenly Father has given us these words of truth: “If ye will repent, and harden not your hearts, then will I have mercy upon you, through mine Only Begotten Son; … [and you] shall have claim on mercy through mine Only Begotten Son, unto a remission of [your] sins; and [you] shall enter into my rest” (Alma 12:33–34).

 

As one of the Lord’s Apostles, I promise you that these words of our Father are true. As you embrace them in your life, the Savior will shape forever the divine destiny awaiting you. (Neil L. Andersen, “The Gift of Forgiveness,” Liahona [February 2021]:11)