The Practice of Confession

There's something powerful about saying your sin out loud to another person. Not just thinking about it privately, not just confessing to God in the silence of your mind, but actually verbalizing it to a trusted human being. What's hidden maintains its grip. What's brought into the light begins to lose power.

Confession isn't about earning forgiveness; that's already provided. It's about experiencing freedom from shame and isolation. You're only as sick as your secrets.

Why Confession Works

• Breaks isolation: Sin thrives in secrecy
• Reduces shame: Being known and accepted anyway
• Creates accountability: Others now know to ask
• Makes it real: Hearing yourself say it brings clarity
• Opens healing: Can't treat what's still hidden

You're only as sick as your secrets. The thing you're most afraid to tell anyone is probably the thing most keeping you stuck. Confession isn't about punishment. It's about freedom.

Who to Confess To

God: Always. He already knows, but telling Him matters.

A trusted friend: Someone who can hear without judgment.

A pastor or counselor: When professional support is needed.

Those you've wronged: When appropriate, as part of making amends.

An accountability partner: For ongoing struggles.

What to Confess

Be specific. "I struggle with lust" is vague. "I looked at pornography twice this week" is specific. Vague confession keeps hiding places. Specific confession exposes them. This isn't about wallowing in detail but about honest acknowledgment.

Your Action Steps

This week: Identify what you've been hiding that needs to come into the light.

This month: Find someone trustworthy and confess what's been secret.

This quarter: Build ongoing confession into your life through accountability.