I will remember their sins no more.
—Hebrews 8:12
John gives it to us in two lightning bolt verses: “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves . . . [but] If we confess our sins [God] will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn 1:8–9).
Be relentless in rejecting self-deception: “If we say we have no sin, WE DECEIVE OURSELVES”—which slams the door on forgiveness.
Be equally relentless in confession of guilt. If we confess our sins, the door swings wide open: God forgives our sins and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. It’s a lopsided deal: God assumes the heavy end of the load—we confess, God forgives and cleanses. It’s that simple and that mind-boggling. It’s a bring-you-to-your-knees-in-gratitude offer.
Talk about a good deal! Winning the lottery is small potatoes compared to this.
Come clean, and he cleanses you.