I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin.

— Psalm 32:5

It has been said that “confession is good for the soul.” This statement is not in the Bible, but God’s Word indicates that when we confess our sins in true repentance, God forgives us in his mercy, and we find peace with God. We are released from the guilt of our sin, and we find comfort in the Lord’s unfailing love.

Psalm 32 describes this process beautifully. It opens with these words: “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” And near the end it says that “the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him.”

The psalmist admits that trying to keep his sin hidden, or secret, weighed heavily on him. The guilt of sin became such a great burden that it sapped his strength. Deep down, he knew he could not hide his sin from God, so he gave up trying. He confessed his sin, and he received forgiveness. What a relief! The weight of all that guilt was lifted.

Confession requires that we allow the light of the Spirit of God to penetrate our heart; identify ungodly thoughts, words, and actions; and turn them over to God. God is the one able to forgive, for Jesus’ sake—and he does.

Loving Father, thank you for sending your Son to pay the price for our sins. He not only accomplished that for us but also rose to life again, to give eternal life to all who trust in him. All glory be to God, our Savior! Amen.