A Life of Confession

Posted on October 29, 2018 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 (HCSB)

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The urgent request of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect.” James 5:16 (HCSB)

Several weeks ago I shared a blog on this topic, and in my reading, it came up again. I like what Stephen Arterburn shared on this in his daily devotional for men:

Confession is not a one-time thing: It’s a lifestyle and spiritual discipline for God’s man. So, which life do you want?

A LIFE OF… pride

secrecy
self-deception
independence
no accountability
pretending
sabotaging relationships
cutting off God’s power
creating distance from people
physical illness
resentment
insecurity

THIS IS A LIFE OF SECRECY.

A LIFE OF… humility

openness
honesty
unleashing God’s power
interdependence
accountability
authenticity
strengthened relationships
creating closeness
better health
joy
security in God’s will

THIS IS A LIFE OF CONFESSION.

Arterburn, Stephen. Every Day for Every Man: 365 Readings for Those Engaged in the Battle (The Every Man Series) (p. 302). The Crown Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Find someone in your life that you can confide in and share your heart with on a consistent basis. It needs to be someone you can trust.

Several years ago I had a Pastor friend who had a leader from his church offer to be his “accountability partner.” The friend kept telling his Pastor that whatever he shared would be safe with him.

This went on for weeks, and finally, the Pastor opened his heart and shared his struggles. The following weekend a group of men gathered for breakfast at a local restaurant, and there was a time of sharing. The friend of the Pastor decided to let the rest of the men know what the Pastor had shared with him in confidence and brought it all out into the public forum.

The Pastor shared with his wife these words: “I will never open my heart again and share anything.” That, my brothers, is a sad indictment and a warning.

I pray that this week you will choose a life of confession. First of all in your relationship with your heavenly Father, but also that you will find another brother who you can be brutally honest with and share your heart. It’s a big step – but a big step in celebrating FREEDOM IN CHRIST.

Overflowing and abounding in hope,

Bill Welte, President/CEO
America’s Keswick

Written by Bill Welte, President/CEO of America’s Keswick: Bill has been married to his childhood sweetheart for 40+ years and has four married kids and 11 amazing grandkids. He loves music and is an avid reader.

The Daily Bible Reading: John 11 | You can download our 2018 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

Think About This: Lord, the choice seems to be a no-brainer. Help me be wise and choose a life of courageous confession. Stephen Aterburn

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the Lord. — Lamentations 3:26