Nougat 6

One prayer that many of us often find challenging is that of confession. Yet we see in Today’s Holy Nougat how simple it can be. Let’s reflect on that some more.

‭2 Samuel 12:13 NLT‬

[13] Then David confessed to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan replied, “Yes, but the Lord has forgiven you, and you won’t die for this sin.

Honesty in God’s Presence

Yes, it was only after being confronted that David confessed, but the fact is that he owned up to his wrong. That isn’t always easy. Just think, when was the last time you offended someone – knowingly or unknowingly – and you were held accountable for it. What was your initial reaction? Did you eventually acknowledge that you were at fault?

Self-justification comes naturally to us in such situations. But God demands a higher standard. Partly because God knows the extent of our sins already, even to the motive behind the sin, and also because our sins detract from God’s glory. Most of all, sin creates a rift between us and God (because God doesn’t tolerate sin) that requires confession to completely repair. Yes, Jesus died for our forgiveness, but we don’t then sin with zero confession. That’s taking God and Jesus’ death for granted.

As we reflect, therefore, let’s see how honest we can be before God. If we are willing, can we ask God to show us our unconfessed sins. Now that they lay bare before us and God, let us, like David confess, ‘I have sinned before You, my Lord.’ Because of Jesus, we can confess without a priest, as He is our mediator, and so we have direct access to God’s presence.

If we get in the habit of confessing in the moment, it ought to become easier, and our relationship with God is positively preserved.

Dear Jesus, please show us the extent of our unconfessed sins. Give us the courage to confess honestly to You, without bald excuses, and strengthen us to withstand any other temptation. Forgive us or wrongs we pray, please Jesus, and continue to intercede on our behalf. Hear and answer please Jesus, amen.

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May all we seek be found in Christ