The book of First John begins with a bold claim: “God is Light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” And because of that, we are called to be people who walk in the light, not under the cover of darkness and pretension.

It’s no surprise then that John immediately tells us to confess our sins to each other.

The rhythm of regular confession is something that many of us leave out of the rule of Christian living. Maybe we do this because we don’t think we need to, or maybe it’s because we intentionally want people to think more highly of us. Whatever the reason, a consistent rhythm of confession; for the purpose of building up, not of shame, can create opportunities in our life for deeper intimacy with God, deeper community with each other, lasting healing from sin, and greater spiritual maturity.