ABC's of Godly Character - C

C is for Confession! Confession is the admission of wrongdoing or sin, admission of guilt, a voluntary written or verbal statement admitting you have done something wrong. None of us like to be wrong. It is difficult to admit when we are wrong, however, as a Christian that is exactly what we are supposed to do. James 5:16 says “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” (ESV). When we are honest enough to tell God where we have sinned and ask other believers to pray for us, we can have the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome that sin. 1 John 1:9 says “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (ESV). We all need forgiveness when we do something wrong. We will mess up in friendships and relationships but we should try to correct those mistakes. No sin is allowed in heaven so we must confess our sins and sincerely ask for forgiveness. Also, we should ask others for forgiveness when we do wrong to them. Be specific when seeking forgiveness from God or from people. We need to be willing to specifically say what we have done wrong and then make it right. With confession of sin, relationships will grow stronger. Our relationship with God and others gets stronger when it is based on honesty, surrounded by confession and forgiveness. When you seek forgiveness from another person, remember you can’t control that person or their response. Keep focusing on God and trying to live for Him, then leave the outcome of the relationship in His hands. It is also good to confess your sins to a faithful, Godly friend if you are struggling. That way they can hold you accountable to move forward out of that sinful stronghold. Christ knows what is best for you, confess where you need help today. 

         Prayer starter: Father, You are a wonderful God, mighty to save and forgive when we ask You. Please forgive me for _____________, which is wrong in Your eyes. Help me to be honest enough to seek forgiveness from the people I have done wrong to also. I need your Spirit to guide me in my life and to help me not sin against you. Let my words and deeds be more pleasing in your sight.  Amen.    

        Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to confess your sins to God and to those you have wronged so that you may receive forgiveness today.