Confession

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
 
Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. - Proverbs 28:13
 
Confession is hard. Most of the time we don’t mind admitting what we’ve done we just prefer not to admit that there is anything wrong with what we’ve done. We are experts at excusing or minimizing our sins. BUT if deeply desire to move past our sin and experience the freedom and forgiveness our hearts yearn for, we must allow our eyes to be opened by the truth of God’s word.
 
Confession is far more than an admission of guilt. God is already aware of the things we’ve done. He knows our hidden thoughts, the moments we lost our tempers, the gossip we have spread. Nothing is hidden from Him. He hasn’t bought our excuses either.
 
Confession is agreeing with God about the sin in our lives. Confession is saying, “Father, I’m aware of what I’ve done. You are aware of what I’ve done and I’m aware that it is sin.” It is agreeing with God the Father that what we’ve done is wrong. It is agreeing that it doesn’t belong in our lives. And it is agreeing that we need to change.
 
Confession must be followed by repentance. Repentance is turning your back to sin. It isn’t merely a subtle shift; repentance is a complete 180-degree turn.
In what areas of your life do you need confession and repentance?
 
As you examine your heart, be honest about sin issues of your life, the excuses you make for them, and then confess them honestly and repent.
 
Read again the two verses above. Find in them the great hope we have for our great sin problem.
 
Today focus your prayer time on confession.

No Comments