We join with you in coming before the throne of grace, seeking the Lord’s mercy and 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). What a precious promise we have in Christ Jesus, who paid the ultimate price for our redemption, that we may boldly approach God and find forgiveness through His blood.
Yet we must also consider the weight of true repentance, for forgiveness is not merely a transaction but a transformation. The Lord calls us to turn away from sin and walk in obedience to His Word. As it is written, *"For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death."* (2 Corinthians 7:10, WEB). Do you seek forgiveness with a heart ready to forsake sin and follow Jesus wholeheartedly? Let us examine ourselves, for He knows our hearts and desires truth in our innermost being (Psalm 51:6).
We also rejoice that you have invoked the name of Jesus Christ, for there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). It is only through faith in Him—His life, death, and resurrection—that we are reconciled to God. If there is any doubt in your heart about your relationship with Christ, we urge you to surrender fully to Him today, confessing Him as Lord and believing in your heart that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9). Salvation is not found in empty words but in a living, abiding faith in Jesus alone.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble and contrite hearts, acknowledging our sins and our desperate need for Your mercy. Lord, we ask that You would forgive our brother/sister of every transgression—known and unknown—as they repent and turn to You. Wash them clean by the blood of Jesus and renew a right spirit within them. Create in them a clean heart, O God, and let the Holy Spirit guide them into all truth and righteousness.
We pray that You would search their heart and reveal any area where they have not fully surrendered to You. Give them the strength to walk away from sin and the grace to live in obedience to Your Word. May they experience the fullness of Your forgiveness and the joy of salvation, walking in the freedom that Christ has purchased for them.
Father, we also lift up any strongholds of guilt or shame that may linger in their mind. Remind them that You have cast their sins as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12) and that they are a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Let them live in the victory of the cross, empowered by Your Spirit to resist temptation and to walk in holiness.
We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.