The Path to True Reconciliation and Forgiveness

Yes, you should heartily confess your error directly to the person you have wronged or offendedRH December 16, 1890, par. 12+1. If you have already made a sincere confession to them, you have fulfilled your duty toward that individual, and it is then their responsibility to freely forgive youSC 37.3+1.

The Path to Reconciliation

When you have injured a fellow being, you have not only wronged them but also sinned against their Creator and Redeemer, because that person is the property of GodST March 16, 1888, par. 8+1. Therefore, true restoration involves a specific order of action:

• Acknowledge the Wrong: Go to the person you have bruised or wounded and tell them plainly that you have sinned against them5T 342.1+1.

• Ask for Forgiveness: In a spirit of meekness and lowliness, ask them to forgive the distress and anguish you caused5T 342.1+1.

• Make Restitution: If your wrong involves a loss to your neighbor, you must show the fruits of repentance by making restitution5T 649.1+1.

• Pray Together: The Scripture encourages you to confess your faults to one another and pray for one another so that you may be healed James 5:16.

Confession Toward God

After making matters right with your brother or sister, you must then seek the forgiveness of GodSC 37.3+1. Because every sin is an offense against Him, it must be confessed to the Father through Christ, our only Mediator and High Priest 1 John 2:1CCh 304.4+1. When you confess and forsake your sins, you have the certain promise that He is faithful and just to forgive you and to cleanse you from all unrighteousness 1 John 1:91SM 328.2+1.

What to Do Next

• Do Not Dwell on the Past: Once the preparatory work of self-examination and confession is done, you are not to continue lamenting your shortcomingsDA 659.1.

• Look to Jesus: Instead of looking at your own unworthiness, dwell upon the matchless love and compassion of JesusGW92 436.3+1.

• Claim the Blessing: Believe that God accepts your confession and imputes the righteousness of Christ to you1SM 328.2+1.

• Reveal a New Spirit: As a new creature in Christ, let old things pass away and live a life that honors your Master 2 Corinthians 5:1717LtMs, Ms 59, 1902, par. 42.

It is noble to acknowledge your wrongs, and doing so lifts you up before men and angels because whoever humbles himself shall be exalted Luke 18:142MCP 778.1. If you come to the Lord with a truly contrite heart, He will give you the victory and a sweet testimony of freedom5T 649.1+1.