Receive God's Forgiveness - Beginning Reflections
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 3 - Receive God's Forgiveness p. 41
When preparing to confess, we often focus on confessing to other
people but forget that our sin against others is first and foremost sin against God. Our failure to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39) is not only a sin against our neighbor but is also a sin against God.
As David acknowledged his sins against Bathsheba and Uriah, he cried out to God: “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgement” (Psalm 51:4).
The prodigal son’s confession to his father acknowledged his sins against God: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you” (Luke 15:21).
As we confess our sins before our almighty, holy God, we remember who He is: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28).
Nevertheless, God promises mercy for those who repent and seek His forgiveness:
“I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,’ and you forgave the iniquity of my sin” (Psalm 32:5).
“Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy” (Proverbs 28:13).
“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8-9).
The act of confession is a profound acknowledgment of our shortcomings, not just in relation to others but primarily in our relationship with God. It is a humbling experience that invites us to reflect on the gravity of our actions and the mercy that awaits us. By recognizing our sins and turning to God in repentance, we open the door to His forgiveness and restoration. Let us remember that true confession is not merely about admitting our faults, but about seeking a deeper connection with God, who is always ready to embrace us with love and grace, His forgiveness. As we continue our study, we will explore in a deeper way what it means to be reconciled with God.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
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