Confession

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

Transparency, honesty, openness these are what God is asking. For those who want to be cleansed, these are not an option. They are a requirement. Notice that there is nothing to be said about whether or not God is right in His evaluation of our condition or our action. He is always right. It is our part to agree with Him, and in that open, honest assessment, we will find forgiveness.

Too often we rationalize instead of agree. Or we shift the blame to our parents or great-grandparents, or cousins once removed, or David Letterman, or whoever. There are times when we flatly disagree with God's Word and God's standards. It does not change the fact: we can be forgiven if, and only if, we are willing to get on God's terms. Oh, the relief! What a wonder to be forgiven by the One Who will be our Judge. "Blessed is the man. . ." Psalm 32:1 says. Are you among the blessed who have been forgiven? If not, you can be. You can be when you confess your sins to Him.