Confess and Renounce… “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy”. Proverbs 28:13
We think we can blend in with the masses and justify with the false premise that “everyone is doing it”. It may be living together, un-forgiveness, cheating, or eating and drinking too much. However, Christ is our model and the Bible is our standard. When He pin points our pride as a problem, it is confession that gives us control over our ego. Once we renounce our sin, then we are positioned to receive the mercy and grace of God.
Like Ezra, your example of confession and renouncing of sin may be the catalyst for others to do the same, “While Ezra was praying and confessing, weeping and throwing himself down before the house of God, a large crowd of Israelites—men, women and children—gathered around him. They too wept bitterly” (Ezra 10:1). Give permission for repentance and pent up fears and frustrations to flow freely before the Lord.
God is faithful to forgive once you acknowledge your guilt to Him, “Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD “— and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah” (Psalm 32:5). Is there anything I am attempting to cover up before Christ? What do I need to confess and renounce to a friend, family member or my Heavenly Father? Confession is cleansing.
Related Readings: 1 Kings 8:33; Daniel 9:3-5; Romans 10:9-11; 1 John 1:8-10
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
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Is renouncing and repentance the same thing?
Dear Dan,
What a great question! Thank you for asking us. As I read and re-read “Confess and Renounce” I feel they may be one in the same in this devotional. However, as I look into their definitions, I get the impression they are a bit different.
What I read was to renounce is to give up, refuse , or resign usually by a formal declaration. To repent means to feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one’s wrongdoing or sin.
While those two definition sound alike, my thoughts are that repenting is more of a “heart issue” that possibly takes on an emotional component, as well as, a continual action to not let it happen again. I have always felt that to repent is a personal commitment from you to God and renouncing is a bit more “formal”.
However, as I read this devotional, I did feel the two words are interchangeable.
I hope I didn’t make things “clear as mud” with this explanation. Like I said, it was a good question and we always appreciate our wisdom hunter’s reaching out to us. We are so grateful for you, Dan, and look forward to hearing from you again.
Believing and trusting,
Gwynne
“Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.”
Psalm 89:15-16