JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Connection, today’s Encounter with Jesus examines His power to forgive.

First John 1:8 and 9 says, “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Confession is simply agreeing with God that we are sinners in need of His grace. There are no secrets that we can keep from God. He knows everything about us already, so nothing we tell Him about ourselves will surprise Him. Jesus is ready to offer us mercy when we approach Him with humility and honesty. Confession is how we bring the darkness into the light, and remove the barriers that keep us from experiencing the joy of God’s spiritual blessings.

First John 2:1 says, “If anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”

A daily connection with Christ gives us a place to turn for complete forgiveness and purification.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com