Come to God in Confession

September 18 – Come to God in Confession

Scripture

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 1:9 (ESV)

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleans us from all unrighteousness.” (KJV)

Encouragement

Prayer is not only where we bring our needs to God. It is also where we bring our sin.

Sometimes we are tempted to hide when we have failed. We may avoid prayer because we are ashamed, make excuses for what we did, or try to convince ourselves that our sin was not really that serious.

But hiding never brings us closer to God.

First John 1:9 tells us exactly what to do: confess.

Confession means agreeing with God about our sin. Instead of defending it, minimizing it, or blaming someone else, we honestly acknowledge what we have done.

And look at the promise connected to confession: God “is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

We do not confess in order to convince a reluctant God to forgive us. For those who belong to Christ, forgiveness rests on what Jesus accomplished for us. We confess because sin disrupts our fellowship with God, and we desire to walk openly and closely with Him.

Confession should also be specific.

Instead of only praying, “Lord, forgive me for my sins,” we can allow God to search our hearts.

Was I impatient?

Did I speak unkindly?

Have I held onto bitterness?

Was I dishonest?

Have I ignored something God has clearly told me to do?

When the Holy Spirit brings sin to our attention, we do not need to run from God.

We run to Him.

Confess it. Receive His forgiveness. Ask Him to help you turn from it.

Then keep walking with Him.

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father,

Thank You that I never have to hide my sin from You. Search my heart and show me anything I need to confess. Help me not to excuse or minimize my sin, but to agree with You about it and turn from it. Thank You for being faithful to forgive and cleanse me because of what Jesus has done. Keep my heart tender toward You and help me walk in close fellowship with You. In Jesus’ precious name, amen.

Thought for Today

When temptation comes, I will turn to God before I give in.