Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan replied, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die.” 2 Samuel 12:13

Doing something that is wrong is common among all people all over the world. Admitting that one did something wrong is not as common and is often seen as a sign of weakness and failure. Very few people like to admit that they made a mistake and did something wrong. They try to excuse it away or blame someone else, rather than take personal responsibility for their actions.

David had committed a sin against God by sleeping with Bathsheba and having her husband killed. God had Nathan confront him about it. David admits his sin and is told that God removed the sin.

Although no one has to, everyone will commit some type of sin against God. These sins can be physical or non-physical sins. What one does with that sin, once it is revealed, is what is important.

Just as the world tries to excuse or ignore a wrong done, many believers will try to excuse or ignore their personal sins. Some are quick to point out that they are not as bad as someone else. Others will say that they are human and that is what happens.

Believers who are truly seeking after God’s heart will admit that they sinned against God. They will have a heart of repentance, remorse for their sin and turn away from that sin, rather than making excuses for it or ignoring it.

God is faithful and just and will forgive any sin that is repented of, though there may be temporary consequences for the sin. Jesus died on the cross to take away all those sins and to give the repentant believer eternal life.

As David did, there will be times when you will sin against God. Do not allow yourself to follow the ways of the world and excuse it away or ignore it. Take full responsibility for every sinful choice that you make.

Run to God, humble yourself and admit your sin before Him. Allow God to forgive you of your sins through the blood of Jesus that He shed on the cross for your sins. God is waiting for you to repent because He wants you to live an abundant life for eternity with Him and not be condemned in sin.

Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that you will repent of any sins before God; that you will seek God’s love and forgiveness in your life; and that God will strengthen you to turn from all sin.