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Key Bible Verse: But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong (1 John 1:9). Bonus Reading: Romans 7:15-19

When I reclaim the language of sin, I see a different self. I micromanage, consume more than my share of resources, and harbor bitterness from past losses. I hoard my time and resent others for intruding on it. I am vain and consumed with how others perceive me. I wrestle with my sexuality and have strayed away from Lisa with my eyes and my heart. I am prideful in my heart and my head. I have learned how to pretend to listen without really listening. I have corrected my children when they need affirmation. I gossip, care more about eating popcorn at the movies than about feeding the hungry, am envious of highly successful men, and overlook the oppressed. I think more about being great than about being good. I act more spiritual than I am. I am a mess—broken in every way—and my only hope is in God's mercy.

We are sinners through and through. Once we see this truth, we can cast our gaze on the One who forgives perfectly, redeems us constantly, and embraces us in arms of compassion and forgiveness. In the strength of grace, God lifts us to our feet, draws us away from sinful choices, and grants unspeakable hope.

—Mark McMinn in Why Sin Matters

My Response: What faults and struggles do I need to admit to myself and to God?

Thought to Apply: The beginning of a cure must be the recognition of the real disease.—Halford Luccock (pastor)

Adapted from Why Sin Matters (Tyndale, 2004) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, help me to stop kidding myself about what I'm really like. Thank You for loving me even though You know the worst.

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