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An important part of talking to God is confessing our sins to him. Our words, thoughts, and actions way too often veer off course. King David teaches us much about confession.

2 Samuel 24:10

But David’s heart struck him after he had numbered the people. And David said to the LORD, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done. But now, O LORD, please take away the iniquity of your servant, for I have done very foolishly.”

This prayer of confession took place after David dismissed God, as well as godly counsel, and took matters into his own hands. He chose, for selfish reasons, to take a census. David’s pride led him to number the people in his kingdom. Notice the process of confession in this verse.

First, confession begins with conviction. David’s “heart struck him” and ours does too when we sin against God. Second, David owns his sin. He acknowledges, “I have sinned greatly . . . I have done very foolishly.” We cannot confess what we don’t own. Third, David prays for forgiveness. He asks God to “take away the iniquity.” And here’s the powerful promise. God’s Word tells us, “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us…and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Talking Points

• Ask God to bring conviction into your heart when you sin and to keep your heart tender before him.
• Own your sin. Don’t blame it on others.
• Ask God for his forgiveness and thank him for his faithfulness to forgive.

Father, keep my heart tender toward you. Never let conviction become dull. Never let me blame others for my sin. Thank you for your faithfulness to forgive. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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