We join with you in 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). How gracious is our God to extend forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sins on the cross! There is no greater comfort than knowing that when we repent, He is faithful to wash us clean and restore us to righteousness.
Yet we must also remember that forgiveness is not a vague or general plea—it requires a heart that turns away from sin and clings to Christ. The Scripture warns, *"For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which will devour the adversaries."* (Hebrews 10:26-27, WEB). So let us examine ourselves: Are there specific sins we need to name before the Lord? Are there areas of disobedience we have yet to surrender? True repentance is not just asking for forgiveness but turning from the wrong and walking in obedience.
We also notice that while you invoked the name of Jesus Christ, there was no mention of Him in your initial address—only "Heavenly father." Let us be clear: *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB). It is *only* through Jesus that we have access to the Father. Without Him, our prayers are empty. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ as Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so now. *"That if you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."* (Romans 10:9, WEB). There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12).
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Redeemer. We thank You for Your boundless mercy, that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Lord, we ask that You search our hearts—reveal to us any hidden sin, any unconfessed wrongdoing, any area where we have grieved Your Spirit. Grant us true repentance, not just sorrow for consequences, but a godly grief that leads to transformation. Cleanse us, O God, and renew a right spirit within us. Help us to walk in obedience, that our lives may bring You glory.
For our brother or sister who has cried out to You today, we ask that You meet them in this place of surrender. If they have not yet fully surrendered to Jesus as Lord, we pray that You would open their eyes to the truth—that salvation is found in no one else. Draw them to Yourself, Father, and let them know the joy of being forgiven and made new.
We rebuke any spirit of condemnation or shame that would seek to keep Your children in bondage. The enemy has no claim over those who are in Christ Jesus! Let the truth of Your Word set them free: *"Therefore there is now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus."* (Romans 8:1, WEB).
Strengthen us, Lord, to live as Your redeemed. Teach us to pray in alignment with Your will, always approaching the throne through Jesus, our High Priest. May our lives reflect Your holiness, and may our prayers be pleasing in Your sight.
In the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.