CONFESS AND REPENT
Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. Acts 3:19
If your relationships have gone sour, your business is going bad, your marriage is a disaster, could some of it be your fault? Is it possible that greed got the best of you? That you took advantage of someone for self-gain? That you have been a bully? If so, you need to recognize that you have sinned, and you must do two things where sin is concerned.
First, you need to confess your sin. What does that mean? Simply admit your fault to God. Telling God that you sinned isn’t going to surprise Him. He already knows what you have done. Confession shows your respect and submission to God—and the relief that comes with confession is overwhelming.
Second, we must be sure to repent of our sins. Repentance involves both remorse or contrition for past conduct or sin, and the determination to turn from that sin today and in the future. Repentance is more than just being sorry. Real repentance involves a change of attitude and action.
A simple prayer like the following can do wonders for your hurt today. Even as you pray, know that God is cleansing your wound and dressing it.
Father, please forgive me of my sin. I realize that my life has progressed in such a way that my suffering has come at my own hand. Though I have pointed the finger at others, today I wish to confess to You that I have sinned and am responsible not only for the hurt in my life, but in the lives of others also. Please forgive me and cleanse me. Please comfort those who hurt because of my actions and give them a heart of forgiveness toward me. Jesus, refresh me with Your presence; I seek and need Your help. In Your name I pray. Amen.