1 John 1:8-9 (CEB)

If we claim, “We don’t have any sin,” we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from everything we’ve done wrong.


Reflection

When it comes to discussing our sins, I think Christians often exist in polarities. We either shy away from talking about our transgressions or constantly beat ourselves up about all our wrongdoings.  Certainly, our heartfelt confessions are not to be taken cavalierly since regularly addressing our sins is important to a Christian life. Yet acknowledging our sins is just the beginning.  As these verses tell, when we faithfully confess, we will be cleansed of “everything we’ve done wrong.”

But when we read further, in 1 John 2:2, we are reminded that Jesus Christ “is God’s way of dealing with our sins, not only our sins but the sins of the whole world.”

Not only do we need to faithfully confess our transgressions, but as Christians, we also need to look for our helper on how to live differently.  We need to consult our Advocate, Jesus Christ. When we turn to our Advocate, we must go beyond the first step of confession. I think that we don’t always do this because sometimes just admitting that we need to change is often SO hard that we stop there. How about if we take the second step and ask Jesus to specifically show us each how to live differently? How about if we ask Jesus to individually show us HIS WAY?

By Barbara Carlson


For Pondering & Prayer

Jesus showing us HIS WAY through a problem is not just a catchy Christian phrase, but also an individually designed plan for how to overcome our sins and the ways of a sinful world.  After we faithfully confess our sins, the next step is to truly ask for help in creating change so that we walk in Jesus’ way. We can walk with his help in the way that leads to new life!

Prayer: Dear Jesus, we know that sometimes we sin and fall short.  We ask for your forgiveness for when we do and your guidance on how to live differently.  Individually, please forgive me for….  Please help me to walk in YOUR WAY, that I might together, with others, create lasting change for myself and those around me. Amen.