We join with you in this prayer of confession and repentance, 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). Your heart’s cry for forgiveness aligns with the truth of Scripture, and we rejoice that you have brought your sins before the Lord, for He alone is able to cleanse and restore.
The Psalmist 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."* (Psalm 139:23-24, WEB). It is good and right to come before the Lord with a contrite spirit, acknowledging our need for His mercy. The sacrifice God desires is a broken spirit, and He will not despise a broken and repentant heart (Psalm 51:17).
We also remember the words of Jesus, who taught us to pray, *"Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors."* (Matthew 6:12, WEB). As you have sought forgiveness from the Lord, we encourage you to examine your heart and extend that same forgiveness to others who may have wronged you. Unforgiveness can hinder our relationship with God, but when we release others, we reflect the grace we ourselves have received.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up this precious soul before You, who has humbly confessed their sins and sought Your cleansing. Lord, You are faithful and just, and we thank You that the blood of Jesus Christ, Your Son, cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7). Wash this beloved one thoroughly from their iniquity, and cleanse them from their sin (Psalm 51:2). Create in them a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within them (Psalm 51:10).
Father, we ask that You fill them with the assurance of Your forgiveness, that they may walk in the freedom and joy of Your salvation. Let them not be burdened by the weight of past sins, for You have cast them as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12). Strengthen them to walk in obedience to Your Word, and empower them by Your Holy Spirit to resist temptation and live righteously.
We also pray that You would bring to mind anyone this beloved one needs to forgive, and grant them the grace to release any bitterness or resentment. Help them to walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us (Ephesians 5:2).
May they experience the peace that comes from being reconciled to You, and may their life be a testimony of Your transforming power. We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us out of this present evil age, according to Your will (Galatians 1:4). Amen.
Beloved, as you continue in your walk with the Lord, we encourage you to meditate on His Word daily, for it is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105). Stay connected to a community of believers who can support and encourage you in your faith. And remember, *"the one who endures to the end, the same will be saved."* (Matthew 24:13, WEB). Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). He who began a good work in you will complete it (Philippians 1:6). Walk in the confidence of His love and forgiveness, and may the Lord bless you and keep you always.