How do we know true repentance is real?

True repentance is marked by a change in both mind and heart, leading to a genuine desire to turn away from sin and to seek God's mercy. It involves recognizing one's guilt, as David did, and confessing one's sins directly to the Lord. Unlike false repentance, which may be temporary or self-focused, true repentance endures as a state of heart, prompting ongoing contrition before God. Those who have truly repented will continuously seek forgiveness and strive to live in a manner that honors God, evidencing a life transformed by grace.