God is Faithful to Forgive
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Apr 16
- 2 min read
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
God hasn’t called us to be perfect. He knew we wouldn’t be and provided a way to overcome our faults and mistakes through a powerful concept called “confession.” The term confess means to acknowledge or agree with God about something. In 1 John 1:9, it primarily pertains to agreeing that we have sinned. John wrote that God is faithful and just when we align our thoughts with Him.
The term faithful indicates that God can be relied upon. He has a proven history of mercy and love. The term just suggests that God doesn’t simply overlook the sin in our lives; instead, the Father sent Jesus to be the sacrifice, allowing God to legally forgive us since Jesus has already paid the price for our transgressions.
Also, 1 John 1:9 features a powerful little three-letter word: “all.” John didn’t specify that God forgives us only for minor unrighteousness; he simply stated “all.” It doesn’t matter if you perceive it as small or too big; God is ready, willing, and able to forgive and cleanse you completely—if you choose to agree with Him and confess.
The verse starts with “if we confess,” suggesting that a choice is required. If we choose not to confess, deny our wrongdoing, act as if we were justified in our actions, or offer excuses for why God’s law should not apply to us, we damage our relationship with God.
We should not be afraid to present our wrongs to God. We are called to boldly approach God’s throne of grace, knowing that the first thing we will encounter is His mercy. Mercy applies when we are undeniably guilty; yet, God does not give us what we deserve.
Instead, He offers us what He chooses to give. When we accept that mercy and approach the throne of grace, we realize that grace is the power of the Holy Spirit that changes us and strengthens us as we move forward and grow, so we don’t continue making the same mistakes repeatedly.
Practical Application
Confession isn't about admitting that you are bad; instead, it's about acknowledging that God is right. It means agreeing with His ways and what He says about you. Don’t cling to guilt and shame; once you recognize sin, go to God. He is faithful to forgive and cleanse.
