This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.
I am feeling conviction this morning. In my spirit is a sort of apprehension reading the beloved apostle John’s reminder that God is light. He is perfectly pure and I am not. What business do I have inviting myself into His presence? I am aware of my shortcomings in character, failure to keep promises, and selfish ambitions. Isn’t it interesting that disconnect exists not just with God, but with other believers who are walking in righteousness. But, oh that power of God to forgive and cleanse has been made available by the precious blood of Jesus shed upon the cross in payment for my sin. The pathway back into fellowship is confession. Exactly what does it mean to ‘confess’? Years ago, my brother Jimbo helped me understand. He said “to confess, is to agree with God about it“. That makes sense. So God, I agree that my character flaws do not glorify You, my failed promises should become fulfilled promises, so that others are not disappointed and hurt, and my selfish ways demean me and prevent a blessing to be bestowed on others. So, I agree with You about the wrongfulness of my sin, the righteousness of Your ways and ask for forgiveness and cleansing in every way. Thank you for your faithfulness. I am feeling closer to You and ready to walk in the light.
I am in denial of my own sin? Or am I ever aware of the tension that exists as I am a man bound by sinful flesh, corrupt desires, in a world contrary to God in many ways? Do I delight in the God who faithfully forgives and transferred me from the kingdom of darkness to His glorious light?
God, as this day begins- Let light shine out of darkness. May I walk this day with You in my heart as the source of my motives and the strength of character.
