Repentance is sometimes a painful process, but it leads to forgiveness and lasting peace. As we repent and rely on His saving grace, we will be cleansed from sin. Jesus Christ suffered the penalty for our sins so we can be forgiven if we sincerely repent. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our Father in Heaven has provided the only way for us to be forgiven of our sins (see Forgiveness). They also bring anguish to our soul in this life. Our sins make us unclean-unworthy to return and dwell in the presence of our Heavenly Father. The Lord has declared that “no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of heaven” ( Alma 11:37). It is motivated by love for God and the sincere desire to obey His commandments. It includes turning away from sin and turning to God for forgiveness. It is a change of mind and heart that gives us a fresh view about God, about ourselves, and about the world.
It is much more than just acknowledging wrongdoings. Repentance is one of the first principles of the gospel and is essential to our temporal and eternal happiness.
