Read Psalm 32:5-7

Depending on the context, confession could mean something different to each person. If you are watching a movie and the antagonist is caught, the police might be persuading him to confess his actions. Possibly, you could have grown up in or had friends within the Catholic faith that went to confession to talk with their priest.

To the unbeliever, confession could be at the first time when that person accepts Christ into their life by confessing their sins and believing Jesus died on the cross to save them from their sinful lives…this is the best kind of confession!

As Christians, confession is an act of admitting sin in our lives and acknowledging it before God even though Christ already dwells within us. We are not perfect people, so when mistakes are made Jesus is waiting there with open arms and listening ears to hear our prayers asking for forgiveness (1 John 1:9).

I recall one time when I was quite young, around 10 years old, I was playing with some kids after church service. One of the kids had a disability that I was taking advantage of during our game of whiffle ball. Once my parents found out, needless to say this did not go unpunished.

That afternoon, I had to call up the boy’s parents and confess my mistake and ask for forgiveness. To this day I recall those events because as humbling and embarrassing as that instance was, it formed character traits within me that I carried on with my family. If any fights or disagreements happen with my kids and their friends, they are aware of what type of confession will be required of them.  

So why is confession so hard? One simple word, pride. Show of hands, who likes to be proven wrong that their way or actions weren’t right? No one that I know of, myself included.  

But God’s truths provide us hope today:

“Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.”

Psalms 32:5

God wants us to go before him…and those we’ve offended (James 5:16) to admit our errors and seek forgiveness through confession. 

So, after you read this and head out for the day, what’s a good place to start becoming more like Jesus through confession?

1. Start with Him: Pray for forgiveness and even though God knows those mistakes in our lives, admit those sins to him that you desire to do better. 

2. Send that Text: Tell that friend, co-worker, or family member that the relationship could be improved? Confess that area where that offense occurred and seek forgiveness.

3. Simply Accept: Be ready if that person comes to you to confess and seek forgiveness…be gracious and willing to accept their apology. 

Jesus never gets tired of hearing from you whether it’s thankfulness, seeking guidance, or confession of a wrong doing…just seek him often!

Drew Hilty