“I still remember sins I’ve repented of, and I feel guilty. Why can’t I forget my sins?” New Era, Feb. 2019, 43.

To the Point

I still remember sins I’ve repented of, and I feel guilty. Why can’t I forget my sins?

Jesus Christ’s Atonement makes forgiveness possible if we repent. True repentance includes humility, confession, forsaking of sins, and a commitment to keep the commandments.

The Lord has said, “He who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more” (Doctrine and Covenants 58:42). But what if our memory of our sins still haunts us? Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has taught: “God did not promise that we would not remember our sins. Remembering will help us avoid making the same mistakes again. But if we stay true and faithful, the memory of our sins will be softened over time. This will be part of the needed healing and sanctification process” (“Point of Safe Return,” Apr. 2007 general conference).

As we truly repent and focus on following the Savior, the Holy Ghost will be our companion and we will be moved to love and serve others. The sting of shame will be replaced by gratitude and hope. And we will glorify God for His kindness, love, and mercy.