Whitefield & Wesley Repentance Framework

Deep Humility vs Pride

ASK | Have I looked down on anyone? Have I been too stung by criticism? Have I felt snubbed and

ignored?

REPENT LIKE THIS | Consider the free grace of Jesus until I sense (a) decreasing disdain, since I am

a sinner too, and (b) decreasing pain over criticism, since I should not value human approval over

God’s love. In light of his grace, I can let go of the need to keep up a good image—it is too great a

burden and is now unnecessary. I reflect on free grace until I experience grateful, restful joy.

Wisdom & Courage vs Fear & Anxiety

ASK | Have I avoided people or tasks that I know I should face? Have I been anxious and worried?

Have I failed to be circumspect, or have I been rash and impulsive?

REPENT LIKE THIS | Consider the free grace of Jesus until there is (a) no cowardly avoidance of

hard things, since Jesus faced evil for me, and (b) no anxious or rash behavior, since Jesus’ death

proves that God cares and will watch over me. It takes pride to be anxious, and I recognize I am not

wise enough to know how my life should go. I reflect on free grace until I experience calm

thoughtfulness and strategic boldness.

Authentic Love vs Judgment & Indifference

ASK | Have I spoken or thought unkindly of anyone? Am I justifying myself by caricaturing someone

else in my mind? Have I been impatient and irritable? Have I been self-absorbed, indifferent, and

inattentive to people?

REPENT LIKE THIS | Consider the free grace of Jesus until there is (a) no coldness or

unkindness, as I think of the sacrificial love of Christ for me, (b) no impatience, as I think of his

patience with me, and (c) no indifference, as I think of how God is infinitely attentive to me. I reflect

on free grace until I show warmth and affection.

Godly Motivations vs Fleshly Ambition

ASK | Am I doing what I do for God’s glory and the good of others, or am I being driven by fears,

need for approval, love of comfort and ease, need for control, hunger for acclaim and power, or the

fear of other people (Luke 12:4–5)? Am I looking at anyone with envy? Am I giving in to even the first

motions of lust or gluttony? Am I spending my time on urgent things rather than important things

because of these inordinate desires?

REPENT LIKE THIS | Consider how the free grace of Jesus provides me with what I am looking for

in these other things. Pray, “Oh Lord Jesus, make me happy enough in you to avoid sin, and wise

enough in you to avoid danger, that I may always do what is right in your sight. In your name I pray, Amen