Pastor Chris,
When I was only 18 I had sex with my neighbor that was married. Her husband was out everynight with other woman. I feel terrible about this and wish I could take it out of my mind. Im in the military, now 23, and will be getting out soon. I want to go to school for bible, will this affect me if I ever wanted to be a minister or deacon?
~ F.F.
F.F.,
While we cannot ever justify sinful actions or attitudes, we can be forgiven of them. Read 1 John 1:9. When God forgives us He also cleans us up from our mess. His grace is sufficient for this. Remember, Paul was a murderer and David was an adulterer. God forgave them and used them for His glory. He will do the same for you.
You will remember your sin, however. Allow that memory to be used of God to create a hedge of protection to hinder you from making the same mistake again.
Do not let the devil tell you that you cannot be forgiven or be used by God. The devil is a liar (John 8:44). The devil will keep you bound to the past and ineffective in the Lord’s service if he can. Do not let him do that. Serve Jesus with your whole heart.
~ Pastor Chris