Avoiding Self Deception

Scripture – 1 John 1:8-10: ⁸If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. ⁹If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. ¹⁰If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Without even thinking, I will always admit that I sin every day. But….when it comes down to confessing my sin, I’m often hard-pressed to put my finger on specific acts. I catch myself blocking them out – believing I’m doing pretty good. Yet, as John writes here, when I do that I’m deceiving myself.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will be aware of my sin today. I will confess when I see it, rather than build up a list I can submit at the end of the day. In that confession, I will accept God’s gift of forgiveness and new beginning. In that, I will live free.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for your patience with me. Sometimes I overlook the simplest things in life. Give me an open eye today to see myself in your truth. Teach me to confess along the way and accept your forgiveness in the moment. Thank you for your grace and mercy.