If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. — 1 JOHN 1:9

Someone once asked me, “I can see from the Scriptures that we’ve received remission from our past sins; that we’ve received the gift of righteousness; and that we’ve been made righteous new creatures. But what about those sins I’ve committed since I’ve become a Christian?”

Thank God for His provision — First John 1:9! This verse isn’t for sinners — it’s for Christians! First John is written for Christians (1 John 2:1,2).

When a man sins, he is under condemnation. He loses his sense of righteousness. But when he confesses to the Lord, “I have sinned; I have failed You. Forgive me, Lord, in Jesus’ Name.” The Lord does two things:

1. He forgives him

2. He cleanses him

What does God cleanse him from? All unrighteousness!

Unrighteousness is simply the word righteousness with the prefix “un” attached to it. When we are cleansed from unrighteousness, or nonrighteousness, then we are righteous again! Praise the Lord!

Confession: Thank You, Father, for Your provision of First John 1:9. Thank You for Your faithfulness in forgiving and cleansing me from all unrighteousness, that I may continually have right standing in Your sight.