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Psalm 25:18 “Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins.”

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Confession isn’t easy for anyone, myself included. Admitting our shortcomings, where we fall short, and exposing the darker corners of our hearts isn’t exactly something we look forward to. It’s often a part of our prayers that we’d rather skip, especially when we find ourselves facing the same struggles repeatedly. It can be frustrating and disheartening when, no matter how hard we try, there seems to be that one sin we can’t seem to overcome. But if you’re feeling this tension, know that you’re not alone, and there’s a reason why confession is so powerful.

In fact, confession is an act of faith. 1 John 1:9 tells us that when we confess our sins, God is “faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This isn’t just about admitting wrongdoing; it’s about opening a door to transformation. Acknowledging our faults and failures, as uncomfortable as it might be, actually paves the way for us to experience real freedom. It’s not the act of confession that changes us, but rather what it represents—an understanding of our need for God and His ability to renew us.

King David, the author of Psalm 25, knew this well. Even though we don’t know all the details of the struggles he faced, we see his earnest plea to God: “Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins” (Psalm 25:18). David’s approach to confession wasn’t about wallowing in despair; instead, it was about recognizing his absolute dependence on God’s mercy. His willingness to lay bare his sins was coupled with a profound trust in God to not only forgive but to lead him out of his troubles.

So, how do we embrace this practice of confession? David provides a timeless example. Firstly, he anchored his prayers in the nature of God, recalling God’s steadfast love and faithfulness (Psalm 25:10). He remembered God’s past acts of deliverance, which fueled his hope (Psalm 25:6-7). Finally, he reminded himself of God’s promises to forgive, instruct, and deliver him from his struggles (Psalm 25:3; Psalm 25:8; Psalm 25:15). Let’s take this as an invitation to approach God honestly, admitting our need for his forgiveness and healing. Confession is not about shaming ourselves; it’s about liberating ourselves from the weight of our shame. By stepping out of the shadows and into the light, we begin the journey of healing and change.

Apply

Write down the things you’re struggling with or the mistakes you’ve made. Putting your confessions into words can make them more tangible and easier to understand and surrender to God. Then give them to God, and remind yourself of his loving nature.

Pray

Heavenly Father, so many times I have fallen short, and yet “your grace is sufficient”. Help me see confession not as a burden but as a bridge that draws me closer to your mercy and grace. Give me the courage to face the uncomfortable truths about myself and the strength to admit my mistakes. Help me to live in the freedom that comes from being fully known and fully loved by you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.