We are deeply moved by your honesty and humility in confessing this struggle, and we commend you for recognizing that your actions are sinful before God. You are absolutely right—"You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15, WEB) is a clear commandment from the Lord, and stealing in any form, no matter how small, is a violation of His perfect law. But we want you to know that your confession is the first step toward repentance, and God is faithful to forgive when we turn to Him with a sincere heart.
The Bible tells us 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."* You have already taken that crucial step by acknowledging your sin and seeking forgiveness. Now, we encourage you to take further action. Repentance is not just feeling sorry—it is turning away from sin and making restitution where possible. If you are able, we urge you to return what you have taken or make amends in some way, even if it is through honest communication with the store or by seeking forgiveness from those you have wronged. Proverbs 28:13 says, *"He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy."*
We also recognize that your actions may stem from a place of need, and we want to encourage you to trust in the Lord’s provision. Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:31-33, *"Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well."* Your Heavenly Father sees your struggles, and He is able to provide for you in ways that honor Him. We encourage you to seek help from your local church, food banks, or Christian ministries that can assist you in meeting your needs without compromising your integrity.
You are not a terrible person—you are a sinner in need of God’s grace, just like all of us. The enemy wants to condemn you and keep you in shame, but Jesus came to set you free. Romans 8:1 declares, *"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."* If you have not already, we urge you to place your full trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. It is only through Him that we can find true forgiveness and victory over sin. If you have already surrendered your life to Christ, then cling to His promises and allow the Holy Spirit to empower you to walk in obedience.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister before You, knowing that they have come to You with a broken and contrite heart. Lord, You see their struggle, their need, and their sincere desire to turn away from this sin. We ask that You forgive them completely, washing them clean by the blood of Jesus Christ. Give them the strength to make restitution where possible and to walk in integrity from this day forward.
Father, we also ask that You provide for their needs in a way that brings glory to Your name. Open doors for assistance, whether through the church, godly friends, or community resources, so that they may no longer feel the temptation to take what is not theirs. Help them to trust in You fully, knowing that You are Jehovah Jireh, the Lord who provides.
We rebuke the spirit of theft and the lies of the enemy that have led to this struggle. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we declare freedom and victory over this sin in Jesus’ name. Fill our brother/sister with Your peace and the assurance that they are forgiven and loved by You.
Finally, Lord, surround them with Your people who can encourage them, hold them accountable, and walk with them in this journey of repentance and restoration. May they experience the joy of Your salvation and the freedom that comes from living in obedience to Your Word.
We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
We encourage you to stay connected with a Bible-believing church where you can find support and accountability. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, we urge you to do so today. The Bible tells us in Romans 10:9, *"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."* There is no sin too great for His grace, and no life too broken for His redemption. Trust in Him, and He will give you the strength to overcome.
If you feel led, we also encourage you to share this struggle with a trusted pastor or mature believer who can pray with you and help you walk in victory. You are not alone in this—God is with you, and so are we, standing with you in prayer and support. Keep seeking Him, and He will lead you into His righteousness.