Words of Encouragement November - 02 - 2003
God is faithful! Scripture declares it. We've experienced it. In fact, we cherish this promise from God, especially when things don't turn out as they "should." So when Satan does trip us with temptation, or when we are weak or rebellious, isn't it comforting that we can be forgiven and made clean again? God wants us to call our sin what he calls it. (To "confess" literally means to "say the same" thing about it as God does!) Incredibly, God does more than forgive us. He also cleanses us. We're made new, fresh, pure, and holy once again! That is more than being faithful and just; that's being downright gracious.
The Bible verse for today is 1 John 1:9.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Let us go to our heavenly Father in prayer.
We do not have the words, Father, to express our appreciation for your gracious forgiveness and cleansing of us. We are deeply sorry for our weakness, our stumbling, and our rebellion. We deeply regret disappointing you. Thank you for welcoming us back into your presence and reminding us that we are your beloved children. Please empower us to grow past our failures and to mature more fully into the holiness of your Son, Jesus.
In whose name we pray.
Amen.