In my view, here is one of the most important verses in the Bible if we are serious about living in relationship with each other …
James 5:16 English Standard Version (ESV)
16 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.
Author Ken Sande says these are the 4 vital questions when thinking about confession of sins:
- Why do we all long to offer “explanations” for our failures?
- How do you feel when people try to explain their wrongs against you?
- What was the most healing confession you’ve heard? What made it so helpful?
- How can a deeper understanding of the gospel free us from the desire to excuse our wrongs?
Bottom line. Confessions that are real are simple, sincere and without excuses. That’s why I like this Proverb so much:
“He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Prov. 28:13).
“He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Prov. 28:13).
