Here again, we see the recurring theme of darkness versus light. Because of our sinful nature as humans, we are always going to have a toe dipped into darkness. Only God is completely light. We can’t appreciate our salvation and forgiveness of sins without acknowledging that we regularly fall short of God’s desires for us.
Have you ever noticed how people try to avoid the subject of sin altogether? Do we think that if we don’t acknowledge sin, it doesn’t exist? We assume people who don’t attend church or read the Bible don’t even know they’re sinning in the first place. But for those of us who have begun to understand the grip of sin and what that means for us, we still don’t want to talk about it or admit to our failures. But we’re called to confess our sins to God, not sweep them under the rug.
It does us good to remember that God loves us no matter what. He may be disappointed in our choices, but his love is unconditional. Romans 5:8 says, “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” God’s forgiveness and grace are waiting for us to claim. It’s up to us to open our mouths and let our regrets come spilling out, asking for forgiveness with confidence in what Jesus has done for us.
Just because we call ourselves Christ-followers doesn’t mean we are going to stop sinning. It doesn’t work like that. But we do have the potential of modifying our behavior when we spend time in God’s Word and begin to understand what pleases God and what doesn’t. We begin to see those traps and snares poised to cause us to fall. Our goal becomes pleasing God instead of pleasing ourselves.
John tells us here what we can do rather than deny our sin. We’re to confess our sins and be cleansed. We are loved by a faithful and just God who stands ready to listen, ready to forgive. What is it that you need to confess today?
Let’s pray. Father, forgive me for holding on to sinful behaviors that may almost feel comfortable now. I want to be cleansed and free so that I can live the life you have designed for me. Thank you for allowing me to come before you, confessing all my sins and dark thoughts, knowing you love me still. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
