The answer
God knows the outcome of our temptations beforehand because Almighty God is Omniscient, having infinite knowledge. The Holy Spirit in us is our advocate at all times especially in our struggles and temptations. He is God and He desires to renew and restore us. Restoration is the main objective of repentance. The parable of the "Lost Son" first illustrated repentance, then return, then restoration. St. Peter's remorseful tears illustrated his repentance. He returned with the disciples and was among the first group to examine the empty tomb of our Lord Jesus Christ. While Judas separated himself and wallowed in shame and guilt, St. Peter remembered his sin and Christ's compassionate forewarning. Thus, with sorrow, he offered repentance. After the Holy Resurrection, the Lord confirmed St. Peter's restoration when three times He asked Him, "Do you love Me?" He then commissioned him to care for His sheep. Not only did Christ accept St. Peter's repentance, but He assured him that his priesthood was also renewed and restored.Faintheartedness is fruitless self-pity and pride gone awry. This sin was Judas' pitfall which led him into hopeless despair. Therefore, the absolution prayed by the priest after confession includes any and all sins including those resulting from faintheartedness. If one becomes so ashamed of his sins that he does not repent, fully trusting in God's love and willingness to forgive him, then he will sink further into discouragement and become trapped by despair. If we were of no value to Christ, He would not have suffered in this manner in order to redeem us. Each person in this world, from the time of our father Adam to the last child to be born before the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, is of extreme value to God, for which He gladly paid the price by His ultimate sacrifice of love.
Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)