JANUARY 31

PROVERBS 28:13

CONFESS OUR SINS TO GOD

"Did any of you see Johnny’s composition book? He lost it before recess. If you have taken it, come and see me right after school." e form teacher announced to the class.

Composition was the hardest subject for Matthew. But, Johnny had always been the best writer in class. That day the pupils had to hand up their two-paged composition but Matthew could not write more than a paragraph. So, Matthew sneaked back into the classroom during recess and stole Johnny’s composition book. He copied and secretly hid Johnny’s book in the gap between the teacher’s cupboard and the wall.

The form teacher just happened to pass by and saw what happened. He was giving an opportunity to Matthew to confess his wrongdoing. Did Matthew seize it? Let us look at two possible endings to the story:

Scenario 1:
Matthew did not feel sorry. He thought that nobody saw him do what he did. So, nobody would know as long as he kept it a secret. He was planning to go straight home as soon as class was dismissed. Oh no, his form teacher was standing right at the gate and signaling him to follow her. What followed was punishment by the principal.

Scenario 2:
Matthew was sorry for what he did. He remembered that God was watching even though no one was supposed to know. He remembered the verse, 1 John 1:9 and he confessed and prayed for God’s forgiveness. He then stood up and owned up the wrong he had done and picked up Johnny’s book to return it. He then apologised to Johnny and the teacher for his misdeed. The form teacher then dismissed the class and spoke gently to Matthew. She promised to give Matthew an extra lesson a week to help him with his writing.
   
Which ending to the story will you choose? It is wise to do what Matthew did in Scenario 2.

Thought: Trying to hide our sins is useless because God knows everything.
Prayer: Thank you Heavenly Father for being faithful and just, to forgive my sins when I confess them. Help me to hide Your word in my heart that I will not want to sin. Help me to be wise. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.