If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us. - 1 John 1:8-10

Oh God, it is counter intuitive for me that if I give up excuses, denial and hiding I will find relief, a clean conscience and peace. My natural mind wants to fix what I have broken without any help because that way I could be proud of my own power to improve. But there is no fixing what I have done. I am a sinner and I can point to several ways I have sinned recently. I admit them. I am sorry. I need your forgiveness and cleansing! And ... I believe your promise. In Christ you have removed them all! I am out of hiding and I can live honestly before you and others. Thank you for the light of true spiritual repentance and renewal. Help those clinging to their sin to come out of their closet too, not to celebrate but to repent and be washed by the grace you so freely share. AMEN

"Repentance is created by God through his promise to forgive."