If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
MARY’S ADULT SON STOLE a family heirloom from her home and sold it for personal gain. Later he recovered the item, returned it to her, and asked for her forgiveness. Mary refused to forgive her child. It’s been fifteen years since the incident, and she still hasn’t forgiven him. She says she never will.
Unlike Mary, our heavenly Father doesn’t hold His children’s transgressions against them. When we come to Him in repentance, confess our sins, and ask for forgiveness, He freely gives it. No matter how grievous the sin. Satan tries to convince us otherwise, telling us we’ve blown it and God is through with us. Nothing could be further from the truth. God said, “I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more” (Isa. 43:25). God forgives us to demonstrate His mercy and to promote His glory. And He forgives us because not to do so would be contrary to His promise. It would make God a liar, and that is impossible. God cannot lie.
If there’s something you need to confess to God, don’t let Satan keep you from seeking the Lord’s forgiveness. Our loving Father is filled with compassion, and He’s waiting for you with open arms. Confess any sin and rejoice in His forgiveness today.
Remember to ACT: adore God, confess your sin, and thank Him for His mercy.
Nancy Reinke lives in Oregon with her artist husband. She enjoys writing, quilting, gardening, and encouraging others.
