Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Proverbs 28:13 NIV
Mercy
Canadians often wonder what authority our head of state, King Charles III actually has in Canada. One example is what is known as the Royal Prerogative of Mercy. It originates in the ancient power vested in the British monarch who had the absolute right to exercise mercy on any subject. In Canada, similar powers of executive clemency have been given to the Governor General as the King’s representative. It is largely an unfettered discretionary power to apply exceptional remedies, under exceptional circumstances, to deserving cases.
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Yesterday we spoke about the power of the confession of sin in the healing process. James speaks about the necessity of confession of sin in order to experience the healing that Jesus offers to all who come to Him in faith. This principle is nothing new. Wise King Solomon knew the power of confession of sin in experiencing God’s mercy. In Proverbs 28:13 we read, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” There is nothing hidden from the eyes of the Lord. The words of the simple old children’s song is right – “for the Father up above is looking down in love.” God sees all things and knows all things. That would be frightening if He was a malevolent tyrant. But He is not. He loves us and knows the pain that unconfessed sin brings about – embarrassment, broken relationships, guilt, fear. No wonder Solomon noticed that those who refuse to confess their sin do not prosper. The wise confess their sins and renounce them – and they experience the mercy of the Lord who is looking down in love. Be counted among the wise – confess your sin and find mercy.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley