If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8 WEB
Jesus came to call sinners to repentance. As Christ said in Luke 5:32, “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. WEB” But before repentance, a person first admits or confesses their sin. If we deceive ourselves by failing to acknowledge our sin, John teaches that the truth is not us. Paul clearly records the truth about mankind and sin writing in Romans 3:23-24, “for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God. WEB”
Paul’s assertion is easily tested by any honest person. Ask yourself, “Have I lied? Have I ever stolen anything? Did I ever use God’s name in vain? Have I looked at anyone besides my spouse with lust?” Christ taught in Matthew 5:28, “but I tell you that everyone who gazes at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. WEB” When we consider all of life and the sins we accumulate, it is easy to see why Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 7:20, “Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and doesn’t sin. WEB”
We Confess Our Sins
It is the Holy Spirit of God that convicts us of sin. The Spirit of God separates the self righteousness of men from the genuine righteousness of God. As we read of the Spirit in John 16:8, “When he has come, he will convict the world about sin, about righteousness, and about judgment. WEB” Filled with the Holy Spirit, David wrote in Psalm 14:3, “They have all gone aside. They have together become corrupt. There is no one who does good, no, not one. WEB” Paul references this verse in Romans 3:10 as he teaches the truth of every man’s sinfulness, “As it is written, ‘There is no one righteous; no, not one.’ WEB”
And so, if we say we do not sin, we deceive ourselves. Not only do we deceive ourselves, but we also reject the gift of God’s grace which is salvation in Jesus Christ who paid the penalty for our sins. Paul wrote in Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. KJV” To receive the gift of eternal life, we acknowledge our sins, repent and follow Christ. As we read in 1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth of your holy word. Thank you for your patience and grace. Search my heart and convict me of my failings. Help me to follow your will and serve your purpose. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Love
