James 5:16

Oh, the multitude of broken relationships, marriages, families, and churches caused by the separation, pain, and isolation of unconfessed sin. Unconfessed to God, and unconfessed to one another. Sin is NEVER just something that hurts the one committing the sin. It ALWAYS has a negative relational impact on those around us! Our sins are like little (or big) bombs that leave hurt, distrust, and confusion in its path. Unconfessed sin is a huge lose-lose situation! I lose because I carry around in my heart the burden of guilt and shame. And I am hindered in my walk with Jesus and my service for His Kingdom. Those around me, especially those I’ve sinned against, lose because the wedge in our relationship caused by my sin remains in place. And again, God’s remedy for reconciliation is genuine confession. When I choose to humbly own (confess) my sin and, when appropriate, ask for forgiveness, my burden is lifted, and our relationship is restored and set free to move forward in a God glorifying way. “Confess your sins to each other.” This needs to become a regular practice in the life of every believer!

PASSAGE: James 5:16 - "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

PAUSE: Let’s be honest. Confession of sins is hard. It is hard for us to acknowledge our sins, much less confess them to our family and friends. Confession of sins ultimately results in the healing of our souls. Spiritual, emotional, and relational health demands that we confess our sins. 

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I desire to be healthy. Lord, grant me the courage and wisdom to confess my sins to other believers who care deeply about me.