In some American sports we have devised a judging aid we call “Instant
replay“. When officials can’t make a call with certainty, or there’s a disputed play, officials can look at the play in dispute again and again instantly. Then after further review they make a call based on the evidence on the instant replay.
Don’t we sometimes instant replay the faults and mistakes of others and our children? Are we guilty of dredging up the mistakes over and over? Think about this: what is YOUR (and my) ratio of replays of mistakes to replays of accomplishments? Family psychologists tell us it takes seven (7) positive affirmations to wipe out one (1) critical or negative remark.
My dad had instant replay in our house. When I made a mistake or goofed something up or made a bad grade, he’d play it over and over to make sure I remembered. Then, when I was in the presence of his friends, he’d make sure they heard the instant replay of my latest misadventure.
Aren’t you glad God doesn’t have instant replay? Once we mess up, sin or disobey and confess it. He forgives it and forgets it. End of story.
If you, Lord, kept a record of sins,
    Lord, who could stand?
But with you there is forgiveness,
    so that we can, with reverence, serve you. Psalm 130:3-4
I am thankful today that God doesn’t use instant replay with my mistakes and bad choices.
I am thankful for His forgiveness and His patience with me.
For His Glory 