Day 3 – Confess and Forgive
If we are in the habit of carefully and humbly listening to God’s truth, our natural response will be to agree with God about our sin and turn to Him for forgiveness. To confess simply means to verbally agree to a statement of truth and align yourself to that truth. When we confess sin to God and others, we are admitting that we have wronged them in some way and are seeking reconciliation. It is a declaration that we want to fix what was broken and restore a relationship.
Study it Out
- According to James 4:6-10, is it possible to be in right relationship with God if we are proudly holding on to any sin in our hearts? How does that same attitude translate into other earthly relationships? (See the first part of chapter 4 if you are unsure.)
- According to Matthew 5:21-25, what should be our first priority before attempting to worship or give sacrificially to God?
- What should our response be to someone who asks forgiveness from us? What specific ministry has God given to us as believers according to 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 and Ephesians 4:32?
Personal Application
If you are struggling with using sharp, bitter words with others, you may want to ask yourself if there is sin or bitterness in your heart that you have not confessed to God or someone else. Have you taken the time to seek forgiveness from God and others?