How many of us have done something wrong and afterwards greatly regretted it. Sometimes what was done could be undone. Actions were reversed, thoughts were changed or isolated acts which did not affect anyone were never committed again. However that is not always the case. There may be words that were said that cannot be taken back. Actions committed by us may hurt people deeply and regardless of how much sorrow we have, the hurt cannot be removed. Sadly to say, the latter is more often the situation.
Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, (Matthew 27:3)
Such is the case with Judas. He decided that he was no longer going to be a follower of Jesus and sought opportunity to betray him. So when the occasion arose, he turned Jesus over to the chief priests. However after his trial and sentencing, Judas repented of his work against the innocent one, Jesus. Regardless of his great sorrow and earnest desire to undo what he had done, he was helpless.
What brought about the repentance or change of heart? We cannot be certain as to why his heart changed, but at least one option can be recognized. What enabled Judas to be willing to betray the person by whom he saw many miracles performed? In Luke 22:3, we see that Satan entered into Judas. While under Satan's control, Judas performed actions that he would soon greatly regret. After accomplishing what he wanted to do to Jesus, Satan no longer had any need for Judas. So he departed from him. It was then that the deceit which was upon Judas' heart left as well. His eyes were open and he recognized the innocent one. He repented for what he had done, but his repentance was too late.
Although it appears from scripture that a saved person cannot be possessed with an evil spirit, they can be oppressed by them. Oppression occurs when evil spirits move against our hearts by waging a battle with our minds. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5) They put thoughts into our minds in an attempt to turn us against God, his guidance and his word. It is at these times that we think, speak or act in sinful ways that we later regret. However as with Judas, our repentance may come too late. We may have the greatest level of sorrow possible, but sorrow and repentance cannot undo what we have done. Relationships may be destroyed, lives may be shattered and homes broken without any hope of restoration.
It is for these reasons that we must walk with God so that we may abide in him and not be uprooted by the oppressive onslaught of the enemy. It isn't reading the Bible that we need, but instead getting something from God through his word. It isn't praying a list that will keep us unmoved, but talking with God. The battle rages daily. Take heed because repentance may not make everything right.
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