Agree with God

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” 1 John 2:8

There is no greater enemy to our relationship with God than self denial. When confronted with our sin, we should agree with God. Confession of sin is simply the practice of agreeing with what God has said about our failures. And it is a turning away from practices that are harmful to our spiritual life.

King David fell into sin by lusting after and commiting adultery with Bathsheeba. Then he murdered Bathsheeba's husband. When Nathan the profit confronted David regarding his sin, David responded with meekness. He repented of his sin and allowed God to cleanse his soul. Even though David commited two horrible sins, God completely forgave him and David was later called a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22). David did, however, have to experience the consequences of his actions.

If we, with a heart of humility, confess our sin to God, he will be faithful to forgive us and will cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). We must kneel before we stand. We do not need to confess our sins to a person; we can go directly to the Lord. There are times, however, when it is beneficial for us to share our shortcomings with someone mature in the Lord. This can serve as a means of accountability and encouragement for us.

When we agree with God concerning our sin and seek to repent of our behavior, we find: forgiveness, restored fellowship with God, and spiritual freedom. Let’s be quick to run to Jesus when we stumble. He will never condemn us; instead he will open up his arms to us and offer us the grace we need to overcome.

Dear Holy Lord,

Shine the spotlight of your glory into the recesses of my heart. Reveal to me any hidden sin I may have. Wash me in your precious blood and enable me to live in a way that pleases you. Lord I choose to follow you wholeheartedly. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

© Copyright 2008 by Tom Toya. All rights reserved.