- Forgive sin
Psalm 32:5
I acknowledged my sin unto thee, And mine iniquity have I not hid.
I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord;
And thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
God promises forgiveness to those who acknowledge their sin, don’t hide their iniquity, and confess their transgressions. God would forgive everyone since Jesus died for all people, none excluded, and reconciled the world (all people), but He can only actually forgive the sins of those who will confess sins and receive that forgiveness by faith.
The condition (if I confess, then you forgave) is not the cause of God’s forgiveness toward us, but it is the means of receiving that forgiveness. My confession does not induce God to forgive; He is ready to forgive before I ask because of Christ who died for the sin. Confession is my receiving of His forgiveness; confession embraces two parts: sorrow for sin, or contrition, and faith that receives forgiveness of sin. Confession believes and receives.
“I will confess” is a statement of determination and faith. “Thou forgavest” is a statement of fact; the promise is true; the result is that my sins are forgiven. This is a big deal and a most wonderful promise: God forgives! He frees me from the penalty of sin, which is eternal death and grants eternal life in its place; He frees me from the guilt of sin, which wracks my soul and wrecks my body; He frees me from the bondage of sin, meaning I do not have to do what sin demands any longer; He lifts my burden and lightens my spirit; forgiveness sets me free. Take hold of the promise and enjoy the freedom.