Despair of God's Grace or Mercy

[Daizies]

In a lot of examinations of conscience, they list "despair of God's grace or mercy" (or similar wording) as a sin. What exactly does this mean, to despair of God's grace?

[BrotherFernando]

Originally Posted by Daizies

In a lot of examinations of conscience, they list "despair of God's grace or mercy" (or similar wording) as a sin. What exactly does this mean, to despair of God's grace?

Sorry, I really don`t know, but I`ll pray so that you may find the answer... also I`ll try to investigate. - Fernando

[ProdglArchitect]

Originally Posted by Daizies

In a lot of examinations of conscience, they list "despair of God's grace or mercy" (or similar wording) as a sin. What exactly does this mean, to despair of God's grace?

Despair of God's grace or mercy is when you say that there's no way God will/can forgive you. You think your accumulated sins are so great that it is impossible. This is a sin because it is placing limits on God, whom is infinite. You are basically saying to God "You can't fix me, I am beyond your power" which, for lack of a better word, is a heresy. It could also be construed as a type of pride.

This despair will frequently lead to the mindset of "well, I'm beyond hope anyways, might as well enjoy myself;" which in turn leads to greater sins. the church teaches that no one is beyond redemption. All you have to do is become truly remorseful for your actions, and vow to work to better yourself; then you go to confession and, generally, your sins will be forgiven.

(I say generally because I know that there are instances where a priest can refuse absolution, but to my understanding that mainly occurs when the person confessing has not expressed true remorse or a desire to change, in which case absolution is impossible.)

[BrotherFernando]

Originally Posted by ProdglArchitect

Despair of God's grace or mercy is when you say that there's no way God will/can forgive you. You think your accumulated sins are so great that it is impossible. This is a sin because it is placing limits on God, whom is infinite. You are basically saying to God "You can't fix me, I am beyond your power" which, for lack of a better word, is a heresy. It could also be construed as a type of pride.

This despair will frequently lead to the mindset of "well, I'm beyond hope anyways, might as well enjoy myself;" which in turn leads to greater sins. the church teaches that no one is beyond redemption. All you have to do is become truly remorseful for your actions, and vow to work to better yourself; then you go to confession and, generally, your sins will be forgiven.

thanks for the explanation I appreciate it as well

[Carlan]

God will forever be present convicting us of not giving up on on his grace and mercy. He cannot help us if we continue to put him off by making excuses .We pray fervently for those who still find themselves in such a place. Peace, Carlan