Heavenly Father,
I come before you today, acknowledging my sins and shortcomings. Your word in 1 John 1:9 assures that ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.’ Lord, I confess my sins before you, knowing that you are faithful and just to forgive me and cleanse me from all unrighteousness.
Forgive me, Lord, for the times I have fallen short of your standards, for the words spoken in haste, for the deeds done in selfishness, and for the thoughts harbored in pride. Your word in Psalm 51:10 pleads, ‘Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.’ Purify my heart, Lord, and renew within me a spirit of humility and repentance.
Help me to extend forgiveness to those who have wronged me, as you have forgiven me. Your word in Colossians 3:13 urges us to ‘Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.’ Grant me the grace to release bitterness and resentment, and to walk in the freedom of forgiveness.
Lord, your mercy knows no bounds, as it says in Micah 7:18, ‘Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.’ May your abundant mercy wash over me, cleansing me from all guilt and shame.
In the name of Jesus, I receive your forgiveness and embrace the freedom found in your grace. Help me to walk in obedience and righteousness, knowing that your love covers a multitude of sins.
Amen
Note to reader,
This prayer is a mere template to get you started. Take the time to read it a few times and incorporate your own pain and struggles. Remember, prayers are not black and white. It is a conversation or rather a relationship with God. Pour your heart out to him. You are his child. He is waiting for you.
