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[New God]

I understand that we are all sinners, but certainly some sin more than others, etc. But under what circumstances will god forgive sins? And to that end, what if you are unaware or cannot recall a specific sin and therefor cannot repent it?

Lastly some sins are intentionally committed, we all (or most of us at least) will commit acts of greed, gluttony, sloth, pride, etc knowing full well that we are doing so. How can you repent something that you will almost certainly continue to do?

[jimwalton]

> under what circumstances will god forgive sins?

God forgives sins when someone sincerely repents (expresses authentic sorrow for having done them), turns away from their sins, and stop living in them (Rom. 6.2). Sin causes a breach in the relationship with God, and it must be dealt with.

> And to that end, what if you are unaware or cannot recall a specific sin and therefor cannot repent it?

You can just pray for forgiveness for unknown sins. That's repentance enough.

> some sins are intentionally committed, we all (or most of us at least) will commit acts of greed, gluttony, sloth, pride, etc knowing full well that we are doing so. How can you repent something that you will almost certainly continue to do?

These intentional sins are what repentance is all about. If you're not going to turn away from them, you're not honestly sorry for them. If you're willing to hang on to what causes a breach in the relationship, then you want your sin more than you want the relationship. For instance, if a husband is not willing to give up his affair to save his marriage, then he's made his choice. If you continue in your sin, knowing that it interferes with your relationship with God, then you have made your choice.

Some sins we continue by choice, and some we continue by habit, even though we want to be rid of them. This latter kind of sin comes out by prayer, God's help, and our work. But if you just continue by choice (greed, anger, whatever), then forgiveness can't be given (in Leviticus and Numbers, there are no sacrifices that can be made for intentional sin. A counselor knows you can't help someone who doesn't want to be helped. God won't forgive someone who isn't really seeking forgiveness through repentance).