August 14 — "Come Clean. Be Cleansed."

Today's Reading: 1 John 1

In the Book of First John, the focus isn’t lofty theology—it’s something much more personal: confidence and assurance in our relationship with God. It's His quiet whisper that yes, you do belong to Him. This letter invites us into authentic faith, rich fellowship, and true joy, flowing from a life deeply rooted in Jesus. And coming up first on John’s divine checklist? Confession and forgiveness. Buckle up.

Modern believers often wrestle with guilt, hidden struggles, and the fear that God will turn away. But 1 John 1:9 shatters that illusion. It reminds us that God isn’t seated behind the heavenly judges bench waiting to scold—He’s reaching out to restore. You don’t have to hide in shame or steep in regret. Confession is your open door to freedom, healing, and renewed intimacy with your Father.

In John’s Greco-Roman world, confession wasn’t fashionable—it was revolutionary. Society preferred polished appearances over painful truth. Image over honesty.

But John calls for a radical shift: ditch the mask and speak the truth. the Greek word for “confess” is homologeo, meaning “to say the same thing as”—to agree with God about our sin. He doesn’t desire groveling or self-punishment. What He wants is honesty. Humility.

And here's the good news: when we confess, He forgives. He cleanses. Thoroughly. Faithfully. Every single time. No exceptions. If we come clean, He makes us clean.

Look at King David. His sin with Bathsheba (see 2 Samuel 11) launched a painful downward spiral. Spiritually and emotionally, he was wrecked. He described it like this: “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away…my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer.” (Psalm 32:3–4) But when David finally came clean with God, everything changed: “You forgave the iniquity of my sin.” (Psalm 32:5) Boom. Joy surged back in. Relief flooded his soul. His spirit? Vibrant again.

So, stop hiding. Put down the mask. Invite the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Then confess—not vaguely, but honestly. Agree with Him. Keep short accounts with God. Daily confession isn’t about dwelling on sin; it’s about walking brightly in the light. It tenderizes your heart. It breathes life into your spirit. And it keeps your connection with Jesus beautifully alive.

Today, may you walk in the sweet freedom of forgiveness. May you find courage to confess and joy in being clean, whole, and new. And deep down, may you know—without a single doubt—He is faithful. He is just. And He is absolutely not done with you.