1 John 1:3-10

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:9, NKJV)

A guilty conscience is an awful thing.

Sinning and NOT having a guilty conscience is an even more serious problem.

Sadly, many people have hardened their hearts against the Holy Spirit’s  nudges about the sins they’ve committed. Or some people recognize their sin, but give excuses- even to themselves.  They will not ask forgiveness of others who might be involved, as well. Shame is avoided, and people just try to move on.

That is not God’s plan.

God sent Jesus to pay the price for our sins; forgiveness awaits all who are truly sorry.  Then, guilt is gone, for the price of sin was completely taken care of.

What is it you have been holding back?  God waits with open arms to receive you in that moment of openly admitting your sin.  He “is faithful to forgive”  That wonderful freedom of being “cleansed from unrighteousness” follows.  How freeing!  What grace!

O God, we thank You for the grace and mercy You offer us.  Help us be humble and admit our many failings against Your will.  Help us not hide our spirit’s responses to the nudges of the Holy Spirit to repent of our sins – intentional ones, and those unintentional, but against Your will nevertheless.  We worship and adore You and thank You in hope-filled joy. AMEN.

Pastor Karla Shafer, Bethel United Methodist Church