“If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”                                                                                          I John 1:9 (NRSV)

When my daughter was learning to tie her shoes, it was all I could do to hold back and not just do it myself – especially when we were in a hurry. I would say, “Just let me show you … you almost have it but you’re doing it wrong … if you would just …” I quickly learned that she would not accept my help until she absolutely had to. I learned that until she asked for help my comments and pushing were only hindering the process. 

Knowledge of this, however, did not keep me from pushing her along the way as she grew older. Her stubbornness and my nagging didn’t stop with learning to tie her shoes. It extended to learning to swim, riding a bike, helping in the kitchen, playing sports, learning to drive, and ultimately making life decisions like applying to college, looking for a job … and it continues.

Yes, I have always tried to step in. I try to help in an effort to save her headaches and heartaches along the way only to be pushed away until she is ready to ask for assistance or advice. Consequently,  I have learned to be a little more quiet and patient than before. It seems no matter how loud and persistent I am, the choice has to be hers. 

Today’s scripture reminded me that we do the same thing to God. We push Him away. We want to do it all on our own. He offers us help through others, through scriptures, and through grace. Yet, we look in another direction – our will, not His. 

Often it isn’t until we hit a brick wall, land at rock bottom, or see no other way out that we finally ask Him for help.

Like that stubborn child, we refuse to seek His guidance.

It is only when we confess our sins, our needs, and our desires that we finally receive forgiveness, fulfillment, and peace. 

Much like the old adage: Admitting you have a problem is the first step to getting help!

No one is perfect. We are faced with and guilty of sin every day.

Remember to regularly confess your sins to grab hold of true forgiveness. 

Admit your faults. Acknowledge your struggles. Ask for help. 

God is always there with out-stretched arms waiting for us to ask. 

“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.”      Psalm 145:18 (NRSV)