Forgive Me!

1 John 1: 9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Recently, I sat at a meeting listening to a colleague express his sadness over the reality that he may have offended others.  He explained that it was never his intent to offend and asked for forgiveness.  Most in the room didn't see this coming and looked surprised but touched.  Someone offered to close the meeting with prayer and prayed for everyone in the room but most importantly for our colleague.

Amazing how the words "forgive me" can have such an impact on others and how releasing the burden of our mistakes, whether simple or significant, can help us.  God calls us to confess our sins to him seeking forgiveness from those we have offended.  He asks this because he understands that sincere repentance will not only lift our burdens, but will empower us with courage.  Taking that step, provides others with the opportunity to lift their burden by being granted the opportunity to forgive.   It isn't just about our sin, but helping others recover from the impact of that sin.  The next time you feel the conviction of having done wrong, remember to confess it to the Lord and to ask for forgiveness.  Just a little advice to go!