Repentance means that there is a change. Repentance says, “I’m sorry and I do not want to do this anymore.” Repentance or metanoia means “change of mind.” It is an inward response not a behavior reform; however, repentance should show results of a change of behavior.
Zephaniah spoke of those who were doing the same old things. There was no visible proof that there was a change of heart or a change of mind. After facing the consequences of sin the people were right back at it “bright and early” in the morning.
If you have repented of something, there should be a visible change along with your inward response. When you turn your life over to Jesus, when you confess your sins to Him, your life should not revolve around doing the same old things. If you find yourself still doing the same old things today, ask Him to give you the strength to press forward. Pray for forgiveness, for comfort and for guidance. Never be fearful of asking your brothers and sisters for help—for encouragement, for support, for accountability. You do not have to spend your life doing the same old things. Jesus offers you something new.
“I thought, ‘Surely she’ll honor me now,
accept my discipline and correction,
Find a way of escape from the trouble she’s in,
find relief from the punishment I’m bringing.’
But it didn’t faze her. Bright and early
she was up at it again, doing the same old things.”
-Zephaniah 3:7 [MSG]
Tania Gutekunst 