One of life’s hardest lessons is that bad decisions always have bad consequences — always. We think we can get by with doing something we know is wrong, but even if we escape for a time, eventually it catches up with us. The Bible puts it this way: “You may be sure that your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23).

Why do I say this? Not to put you down or make you feel bad; you’ve already paid your debt to society, and I pray you’ll be able to learn from your past and put it behind you. You can’t change the past, but with God’s help you can change the future.

This is why the most important step you can take is to commit your life to Christ and put your future into His hands. Don’t face the future without Him! God loves you and knows all about your fears and heartaches. God’s promise is for you: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'” (Jeremiah 29:11).

How will God guide you? It may be through the counseling I hope you’ll receive before you’re released, or through your prison’s chaplain. In addition, once you’re released, ask God to guide you to a church where you’ll be welcomed, and can grow closer to Christ.

Find a new life in Jesus