We come before you with hearts full of gratitude that you have sought the Lord’s 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). You have done well to call upon 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 Him that we have access to the Father, and we rejoice that you have acknowledged this truth.
Yet we must ask: what sins weigh upon your heart that you seek forgiveness for? The Lord already knows, but there is power in confessing them before Him with a repentant spirit. If there is unconfessed sin—whether it be pride, bitterness, sexual immorality, dishonesty, or any other transgression—we urge you to lay it bare before the Lord. *"He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy."* (Proverbs 28:13, WEB). Do not let shame hold you back, for Christ’s blood is sufficient to cleanse even the deepest stain.
We also encourage you to examine your heart: Is there anyone you need to forgive, as Christ has forgiven you? Are there relationships that need restoration, or habits that need to be surrendered? True repentance bears fruit—*"Bear fruit worthy of repentance!"* (Matthew 3:8, WEB). Let this moment of forgiveness be the beginning of a transformed life, walking in obedience and gratitude.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we lift up your child before You, thanking You that they have come humbly to seek Your forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Lord, we ask that You would search their heart and reveal any hidden sin, any area where they have not fully surrendered to You. Grant them the courage to confess and turn away from it, knowing that Your mercy is new every morning. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may walk in holiness and righteousness, no longer bound by the weight of guilt but free in the victory of the cross.
If there are strongholds in their life—whether it be lust, anger, addiction, or unbelief—we rebuke the enemy’s grip in Jesus’ name and declare that *"no weapon that is formed against you will prevail"* (Isaiah 54:17, WEB). Let them experience the fullness of Your peace, knowing that *"as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us"* (Psalm 103:12, WEB).
Strengthen them to live as a light in this world, testifying of Your grace. May their life bring glory to Your name, and may they never forget the price that was paid for their redemption. We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.