Confession and Repentance

Reading: 1 John 1:9; Acts 3:19

Devotional: Confession is not informing God of something He doesn't know; it's agreeing with Him about the reality of our sin. It's like breathing out, releasing what we've been holding. When we confess, God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us. But confession without repentance is empty ritual. Repentance means to turn around, a conscious decision to walk away from sin, not just feel bad about it. Every time we take communion, we practice this. We come forward confessing, then turn and walk back, symbolizing our commitment to go a different direction. Too often we confess while already planning our next opportunity to sin. This spits upon the sacrifice we claim to worship. Today, identify where the Holy Spirit is prompting you. Confess specifically. Then make the turn. Determine in your mind and heart to go and sin no more.

Reflection Question: How might your life look different if you truly lived as though you were putting on the Lord Jesus Christ and making no provision for the flesh to gratify its desires?