We join with you in seeking the Lord’s mercy and forgiveness, for it is written in 1 John 1:9, *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."* What a precious promise we have in Christ, that when we come before Him with a repentant heart, He does not turn us away but washes us clean by His blood.
Yet we must also remember that forgiveness is not a vague or general request—it requires a sincere turning away from sin and a turning toward God. The Lord calls us to examine our hearts and confess our specific wrongdoings, not just in a broad sense, but with honesty before Him. Psalm 139:23-24 declares, *"Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way."* Have you taken time to reflect on the areas where you have fallen short? Have you sought to make things right with those you may have wronged, as far as it depends on you (Matthew 5:23-24)?
We also notice that while you invoked the name of Jesus Christ, there is a tendency in your request to address the Father directly without fully acknowledging that it is *only* through Jesus that we have access to God. Jesus Himself said in John 14:6, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me."* There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12), and our prayers are heard because of His righteousness, not our own. Let us never take for granted the privilege of coming boldly before the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16), but let us do so with reverence, knowing that our standing with God is secured by Christ alone.
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your boundless mercy and grace, which You have lavished upon us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, we lift up this brother/sister before You, asking that You would search their heart and reveal any area where they have strayed from Your will. Grant them a spirit of true repentance, that they may turn from every sin—known and unknown—and walk in the light of Your truth. Father, we ask that You would cleanse them by the blood of Jesus and fill them with the Holy Spirit, empowering them to live a life that honors You.
Lord, we also pray that You would deepen their understanding of the gospel, that they may never approach You casually but always through the finished work of Christ. Teach them to pray in alignment with Your Word, knowing that it is in Jesus’ name—and His name alone—that we have confidence to come before You. Strengthen their faith, O God, and let them experience the joy of Your forgiveness and the peace that comes from a clear conscience.
We ask all these things in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to spend time in God’s Word daily, allowing the Holy Spirit to convict and guide you. If there are specific sins weighing on your heart, bring them before the Lord in prayer and seek accountability from mature believers in your life. Remember, forgiveness is not just about relief from guilt—it is about transformation. As you walk in obedience, you will experience the freedom and abundant life that Jesus promises (John 10:10). Stay steadfast, and may the Lord bless you richly as you seek Him with all your heart.