Originally published Monday, 21 November 2016.
www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
I’m going to talk about something today that might be a little tough for some, but I believe that in the end, you’ll understand the purpose for this post. It’s about confession. Now, for some, this action step may be easy. Yet, for others it may be downright gut-wrenching (mainly, because it’s very humbling and revealing). In any case, if you do it, I believe you’ll discover that confession actually brings freedom.
Straight up…confession begins when we open our mouths. It’s about admitting where we truly are with God and with a trusted accountability partner. Do you have an accountability partner? Just thought I’d ask that upfront. Because again, confession starts by talking about it.
The actual word confession means admitting a fault or crime, revealing something hidden, or acknowledging some form of guilt or sin. Again, I know this is not an easy thing to do, but it’s totally worth the effort. I’ll also tell you (and some of you know), there’s such an amazing release of freedom once you confess it.
But before I get ahead of myself, I need to tell you that whatever you need to confess (at any point in your life) stemmed from the heart initially (or because someone did something to you and now your heart and thoughts are acting out in ways that are not right according to Scripture). For instance, things like slander, lying, adultery, fornication, impure thoughts, unforgiveness, offense, or outbursts of anger…these are all thought and heart issues. Proverbs 4:23 states, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out if it flows the issues of life.” Keeping and guarding your heart is work, but it’s a good work!
Now, some people may say, “I’m good, Courtnaye. My heart is okay. There’s no sin in me.” And if you’re okay right now. Great! However, if you’re not (or when you’re not), confess it and get free quickly. First John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Trust me, I’ve had many times in my life where I was battling with some form of sin, and the Lord beckoned me to get it right. I’ve had to do it. And honestly, I don’t know about you, but it’s downright smothering when you know that you’ve done something wrong in the sight of God, and you haven’t yet confessed it to Him or anyone else, yet.
We have to understand that there is absolutely nothing that we can keep secret with the Lord. He’s an all-knowing God. Yet, it’s our responsibility to confess it, repent of it (meaning, turn away from it), ask for His forgiveness, and get that clearance in our spirit. That’s release. That freedom!
Listen, I don’t know where you are right now in your life. Everything could be perfectly fine. However, if you are indeed going through something that you know is hidden within your heart, talk to God about it. Also, talk to someone whom you trust about the issue (if you feel the need to do so). And if and when you talk to this person, just make sure that this individual does not agree with your sin or tell you that everything is okay with what you’re doing, when it’s truly NOT okay. A true friend will tell you the truth at all cost and will help you get through it God’s way and with prayer. The Bible says in James 5:16, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of the righteous person has great power and wonderful results.” And don’t forget the famous Proverb…”As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” (*actual verse is Proverbs 27:17)
Before I close this post, if you need to confess something, I strongly encourage you to talk to God about it. Again, He already knows. He just wants you to confess it. Simply sit down and have that heart-to-heart talk with Him. Cry out to Him. He is waiting and listening, and willing to forgive you. Just step out in faith that He will help you through it.
And keep this in mind…it is way better to confess it now, then to be exposed later. So save yourself from the headache, heartache, shame, and embarrassment and just release it. Get free and stay free through finding deliverance through confession.
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
QUESTION: Is there something that you need to search your heart on and confess to God? No matter how small or big, do it. Also, do you have an accountability partner? If you need prayer leave a comment or email me @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com. And I’ll partner with you in prayer about it.
ALSO, just want to encourage you to grab my NEW book, “IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ & Moving Forward in Your Purpose!” ORDER IT TODAY right here on Amazon.com! And if you already have it and have read it, please give me a REVIEW on Amazon.com. Thanks so much in advance.
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