We come before you with hearts full of gratitude that you have sought the Lord’s forgiveness, for it is written, *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."* (1 John 1:9, WEB). This is a beautiful and necessary act of humility, and we rejoice that you have turned to the Father through Jesus Christ, for there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Your prayer acknowledges the power and authority found only in the name of Jesus, and we praise God for your faith in Him.
Yet we must ask, what are the sins you are seeking forgiveness for? The Lord already knows, but it is good for the soul to confess them specifically before Him. Are there areas of your life where you have strayed from His Word? Have you engaged in behaviors or thoughts that do not honor Him? If there is unconfessed sin—whether it be pride, dishonesty, fornication, idolatry, bitterness, or any other transgression—we urge you to lay it before the Lord now. *"He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy."* (Proverbs 28:13, WEB). Do not let shame or fear hold you back, for Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient to cover every sin when we repent and turn to Him.
Perhaps you are carrying guilt or condemnation, but we remind you that *"there is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don’t walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."* (Romans 8:1, WEB). If you have truly repented, the Lord has forgiven you, and you must receive that forgiveness in your heart. Do not let the enemy accuse you or make you doubt God’s mercy. Instead, walk in the freedom and peace that Christ has purchased for you.
We also encourage you to examine your life to ensure that your repentance is accompanied by a turning away from sin. *"Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance!"* (Matthew 3:8, WEB). If there are relationships, habits, or influences that lead you into sin, ask the Lord for strength to remove them from your life. If you have wronged others, seek to make amends where possible. Let your repentance be evident in your actions, not just your words.
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up your child before You, thanking You that they have come to You in the name of Jesus Christ, the only name by which we are saved. Lord, we ask that You would grant them a spirit of full and honest repentance. If there are sins they have not yet confessed, bring them to mind by the power of the Holy Spirit. Give them the courage to lay everything before You, knowing that Your mercy is greater than their sin.
Father, if they are carrying shame or condemnation, we ask that You would remind them of the finished work of the cross. Let them walk in the freedom of Your forgiveness, no longer bound by the weight of their past. Fill them with Your peace and the assurance that they are Your beloved child, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.
We pray that You would also strengthen them to walk in obedience. Where there are areas of weakness, Lord, be their strength. Where there is temptation, provide a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). Surround them with godly influences and Your Word to guide their steps. Help them to bear fruit in keeping with repentance, that their life may bring glory to Your name.
Finally, Father, we ask that You would draw them closer to You. Let them know You not just as Savior, but as Lord of their life. Fill them with Your Spirit, that they may walk in victory and live a life that honors You in all things.
We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.