1 John 1:9 – If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (NIV)

1 John 1:9 – If we claim that we’re free of sin, we’re only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won’t let us down; he’ll be true to himself. He’ll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. (The Message Bible)

Lord, why is it so difficult to take responsibility when we do something wrong?  I heard people joking say, and I’ve said it myself, “I didn’t say it was your fault; I said I was blaming you.”  When we say that, it’s supposed to be funny.  When we act it out, it’s not funny at all.  One time I had someone say something very hurtful to me, so hurtful that people who overheard were shocked.  A friend of hers forced her to apologize to me.  Her apology was “I’m sorry you cried.”  What she was really saying was “I’m sorry that you got me in trouble.”   She not only didn’t take responsibility for her action, she felt that she had been the victim because of my reaction.  Saying “I’m sorry” is so important. I’ve heard people say that if you love someone, you don’t have to say you’re sorry.  That is such a lie from Satan.  We need to say it to our spouses, to our children, to our friends, even to strangers.  We especially need to say it to You, Lord.  Sometimes we don’t apologize because we are trying to hide our sin from You.  Sometimes we even try to put the blame on You.  Adam did that in the Garden of Eden.  He tried to hide.  When discovered, he didn’t take responsibility for his sin.  He felt that he had been the victim.  He blamed You.   1 John 1:9 tells us if we confess our sins, You will forgive us.  Lord, I am sorry that I let my tongue become like that unbridled horse that James warns about.  Lord, I’m sorry that I try to blame others and You for my sins.  Lord, I’m sorry that I worry and fret even though You tell me not to do that.  Lord, I’m sorry that I sometimes get in the way of Your blessings by trying to “help” You.  Lord, thank You for loving me so much that You meet me over coffee and let me say “I’m sorry.”