The spiritual effects of the sacrament of Penance are:
- reconciliation with God by which the penitent recovers grace;
- reconciliation with the Church;
- remission of the eternal punishment incurred by mortal sins;
- remission, at least in part, of temporal punishments resulting from sin;
- peace and serenity of conscience, and spiritual consolation;
- an increase of spiritual strength for the Christian battle.

Temporal punishment is the temporary suffering or unhealthy attachment left behind by sin. Even when the guilt of a sin is forgiven through confession and eternal damnation is avoided, a residual spiritual disorder or "debt" remains. This temporal penalty requires purification either through earthly penance, acts of charity, or suffering in Purgatory before entering Heaven.

Confession removes the eternal guilt of sin, but the harmful wounds and worldly attachments caused by the sin persist.

We are creatures of habit. The goal is to develop the habit of charity. When we sin we make a habit that is contrary to charity. The healing of this bad habit is called “temporal punishment.”

Prayer, fasting, almsgiving, patient endurance of life's sufferings, and acts of mercy reduce this punishment during life.

Indulgences: explains that partial or plenary indulgences granted by the Church can remit part or all of this temporal punishment.

Any unremitted temporal punishment remaining at the time of death is cleansed through the temporary suffering of Purgatory.

Ephesians 4:29-32 

Never let evil talk pass your lips; say only the good things men need to hear, things that will really help them. Do nothing that will sadden the Holy Spirit with whom you were sealed against the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, all passion and anger, harsh words, slander, and malice of every kind. In place of these, be kind to one another, compassionate, and mutually forgiving, just as God has forgiven you in Christ.

“Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.

Leaving the Boat

Taking a risk: The other disciples stay safely inside the boat, holding on as the waves crash. Peter dares to step out.

The call of obedience: Peter does not jump out out of pride or foolishness. He asks Jesus to call him. When Jesus says "Come," Peter moves.

Stepping into our lives: God calls us out of our safe routines. Growth in faith always asks us to take a spiritual risk.

The Strong Winds and Sinking

Shifting our gaze: As long as Peter looks at Jesus, he does the impossible and walks on the water.

The power of fear: Peter looks down at the strong wind and big waves. He lets fear replace his trust.

Our own struggles: We do the same thing. When trials and temptations hit us, we focus on our own weakness instead of Christ's power, and we begin to sink.