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)