“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 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.”

1 John 1:7-9

Devotional from La Jolla San Diego

John wants his readers to walk in the light (v. 7) and gain the benefits thereof. In verse 6 he warns that if we walk in darkness we ‘do not live out the truth.’ He calls us to walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Christians are to be known by their love, having fellowship with one another and with the Lord. If, on the other hand, we have hatred toward a brother or sister, this would be evidence of continuing to walk in darkness (2:9).

When we do sin (and which of us can claim to be without sin?), thank God that there is a way back. Confession leads to forgiveness and cleansing, introducing us to the ministry of our divine advocate, Jesus Christ. He provides not only the sacrifice for our sins, but also the intercession with the Father that is effective for sin on a global basis.

APPLY

Read Psalm 51 and ponder the extent of David’s repentance and confession. Praise God for the joy of being washed ‘whiter than snow’ (v. 7).

CLOSING PRAYER

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts (Psalm 139:23). Holy Spirit, bring me to repentance where I need to conform to God’s will for me and realign my thoughts and actions.

(Edited from Encounter with God)