Reading: Humbly Confess by Brian DeCook

Humbly Confess

Scripture references: Haggai 1:7; 2 Cor. 7:10; Psalm 51:4; 1 John 1:9; James 5:16

1.         When we are confronted with our sin, the Lord provides us with an opportunity to consider our ways and humbly acknowledge our need for the Lord's transforming work in the area of our life where sin is exposed.Haggai 1:7

2.         The Bible teaches that the exposure/confrontation of sin produces two types of grief/sorrow: worldly sorrow and godly sorrow.2 Cor. 7:10

3.         Worldly sorrow produces self-pity, excuses, embarrassment, blame, and a victim mentality.Godly sorrow produces repentance - a change in direction.

4.         The first response after our sin is exposed is to reconcile with God by humbly confessing our sin to Him. Psalm 51:4; 1 John 1:9

5.         The second response after our sin is exposed is to confess our sin to those affected by it and to pray for them. James 5:16

6.         How a confession is communicated has a significant impact on whether reconciliation will occur - communicate with grace and wisdom.

7.         The Seven A's of Confession: Address everyone involved (All those affected by our sin); Avoid if, but, and maybe (Do not try to excuse our wrongs); Admit specifically (Both attitudes and actions); Acknowledge the hurt (Express sorrow for hurting someone); Accept the consequences (Such as making restitution); Alter your behavior (Change your attitudes and actions); Ask for forgiveness.(Ken Sande, The Peacemaker, Baker Books, 2004; www.hispeace.org).

8.         The most powerful words in confession, "Will you forgive me?”