In a world in need of a lot of change, I can’t help but wonder how much better the world would be if we’d just confess our sins to one another, and forgive.
Sounds easy, right?
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
James 5:16 explains that when we forgive one another, we’re not only forgiving them their trespasses, but we’re allowing for a healing to take place, as well.
When We Choose To Forgive
We shouldn’t wait until someone is nearing death to forgive them, or even after a brutal divorce. Our hearts should be willing to recognize the pain that we’ve caused one another, asking for this forgiveness. In doing this, it will require us confessing what we know we’ve done to help cause the offense.
There are many who do struggle with openly admitting their faults, and there are many who spend years in the wilderness because of it.
We spend more time complaining about our circumstances, than we are willing to recognize where it all went wrong. What could have been a molehill in our life, has now turned into this enormous mountain. And sadly, this will leave us with more heartache and regret.
Living In A Fallen World
We live in a very fallen world. Pride is keeping many from confessing their sins. No one wants to admit when they’re at fault, and as a result we do have more divorces and lawsuits, and division between nations, lawlessness and selfishness… You get my point.
So, how do we forgive someone, if they do not confess what they’ve done?
The Bible warns us of the coming end-times, and what we must each do to prepare: “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:34-36).
Philippians 4:4-7 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
In Good Times, Or Bad?
When we’re abandoned or abused by a loved one, it is a difficult circumstance to forgive. Our idea of a true believer in Christ is someone who will love us and protect us, being a helpmate to us.
For better or for worse, they are accepting of you, loving you. No matter what your past, your present, or your future may look like, they’re there to stick it out with you, through thick and thin, in good times and/or troubles.
A follower of Christ will honor the Lord in how they love you. It won’t matter whether they’re a complete stranger, family member, spouse, or friend.
Love Your Enemies
Jesus said, “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Who has hurt you or abandoned you? Do you feel forsaken? And are you willing to forgive?
Take it to the Lord, today, leaning on Him for this help. We’re running a race here (on Earth), and having a strong team of runners running with us is vitally important. Don’t get left behind because someone else doesn’t care to keep up… You’re running for your life, and for all eternity!
In man alone we should never place our trust, and in a world full of choices, we’re doing well to first and foremost seek Him.
You see, confession does open the door to forgiveness; but, if there’s no confession, we must simply choose to forgive.
Read also: Confession Opens The Door To Forgiveness – Hope Opens The Door To Love
