One of the hardest things in the world is admitting we are wrong, right along with asking for forgiveness. Being able to say, “I made a mistake”, “I made the wrong choice”, and “I’m sorry” can be so incredibly difficult. Pride is probably a big factor, but so is fear. Many times, it is easier to pretend we never messed up than it is to face the consequences of our wrongdoing. It is easier to avoid the person we’ve wronged than to face them and have to apologize. But we cannot dodge God so easily. He already knows all of the wrong we’ve done. That’s a thought that might make us want to run and hide! The Good News, however, is that when we are followers of Jesus, we don’t need to fear confessing or admitting our wrongs.

When my daughter was a child, she could not (or would not) say the words “I’m sorry”. She knew there would be consequences if she did not ask for forgiveness and yet refused to say the words; words that would bring healing to her soul as well as the person she’d offended. She preferred the consequences, losing a privilege or other disciplinary action. Her pride, even as a child, was very great and something that kept her from enjoying many things. She, like us, was not condemned by her sin, though; Jesus took care of that. Just as a parent can forgive a child because their ways are childish and immature, so Jesus can forgive us, his children, for our immature and often childish actions. Jesus suffered a cruel death on the cross and His justice has been satisfied, so now the process of confession and asking forgiveness is about our humility and growth. It brings us closer to our Savior and allows us to experience His forgiveness, for when we wrong others we ultimately wrong Him. Being able to confess our wrongs and say “I’m sorry” strengthens our relationships with each other and builds the bond with our Lord.

If there is someone you’ve wronged, give it to God and he’ll give you the strength to ask for their forgiveness, and say, “I’m Sorry”. Our fair God has already forgiven you, all you need to do is confess!

Suggested Prayer: Dear God, you are so gracious to offer me forgiveness even when it was my sin that nailed you to that cross. Your love surpasses my understanding, and I am humbled by your mercy. I’m sorry for offending you with my unforgiving heart. Thank you for loving me and making a way for me to spend eternity with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1.    1 John 1:9 (ESV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.