1 John 1:9 says, "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Confession is a time worth having. Not just alone, but with fellow brothers and sisters of Christ. It helps keep you accountable to others and for others, it helps give you a different perspective on what is going on, it gives you support and help from others, and if builds the sense of community that the Christian body should have. Confessing your sins is not about gossiping or finding dirt on each other. It is about coming to your Christian family, being raw, and helping each other through rough times.
James 5:16 says, "therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." We confess our sins also for help. Sometimes, we are struggling with a sin or a problem that is too big for us to handle alone. God gave us a Christian community to give us each help from one another. Sometimes we go through problems and we feel alone, but confession helps us to see that we are not alone, and that others are going through the same things supporting your growth. It also allows those who have overcome the sin or the issue to give you advice and help you through the rough time. If you do not seek help, how can anyone help you? 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "no temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with temptation He also provides the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
"Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." (Proverbs 28:13) By confessing our sins, we help one another and pray for each other. Confession is scary for many, because of the fear of judgment or of trial. Who knows what the person may think! Well, if you do not feel that the person will be loving and accepting, then do not confess to them. Confess to a true Christian brother or sister who will keep your sin secret, pray with you, love you, and not judge you for what you have done. Someone who would judge you for your sin is not a follower of the forgiving and loving Christ.
Do not be afraid of confession. It can be a powerful tool against sin. Instead, find someone you trust and be willing to open up step by step with them. You do not have to spill everything at once, unless God says otherwise; but build that relationship of trust so that you can begin confessing bit by bit. No one will force you to confess, but life will be so much easier when you allow your brothers and sisters in Christ to help you remove your burdens.
-D
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