You apologized. They forgave you. But when you are alone, the memory still returns. Scott Sauls considers why receiving forgiveness can be so difficult, and how the mercy of Christ meets us without minimizing the harm we have caused. Through 1 John 3 and the wisdom of historic Christian prayers and confessions, this episode explores lingering regret, responsible efforts to make amends, and the help of another believer who can remind us of what God has said when our own hearts condemn us.

What do we need when the explanations people offer only make our pain harder to carry? Scott Sauls reflects on Kate Bowler’s experience of cancer and the prayers of Psalms 13 and 23, considering how sorrow and trust can belong in the same prayer. For anyone waiting on frightening news or walking beside someone who is, this episode explores the comfort of Christ’s presence, the freedom to lament, and the quiet care we can offer when we cannot explain or fix what hurts.

Why does someone else’s success have the power to make us dissatisfied with our own lives? Comparison promises that we will finally feel secure when we have what someone else has—or move a little further ahead. But the finish line never stops moving.

In this episode, Scott Sauls explores why comparison and envy steal our joy, what Psalm 73 teaches us about finding our true “portion” in God, and how the gospel frees us to enjoy the life we have actually been given.

Drawing from C.S. Lewis, Bertrand Russell, and his book The Mercy King, Scott considers a simple but liberating truth: Someone else having more does not mean that you have less.

This is Part 4 of a 12-part series exploring themes from The Mercy King. Follow the Scott Sauls podcast for weekly Christian reflections on faith, identity, spiritual growth, and life with Jesus.