Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
August 20, 2023: SOAP #5008: Jeremiah 48-49; Psalm 67; 1John 1

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

OBSERVATION:  God’s forgiveness and cleansing of my sinful soul is not based on my praying the right words or bringing the right sacrifice as proof of the sincerity of my confession.  It is based on His character! 

Jesus does not say, “I was going to forgive you, but you did not get the words quite right.”  He does not say, “Sorry, you just brought the wrong sacrifice.” 

When I agree with Him that I have sinned, He forgives and cleanses me based on His faithfulness to the death of Jesus.  God is just and does not demand a second payment for a sin that is already covered by the blood of His Son.

APPLICATION:  It is with a heart of gratitude that I serve the Lord.  As the song goes, “He paid a debt He did not owe; I owed a debt I could not pay; I needed someone to wash my sins away.  And now I sing a brand new song, Amazing Grace; Christ Jesus paid a debt that I could never pay!”

PRAYER:  Lord, I am in awe that you are faithful and just.  Thank you for forgiving my sins.  Thank you for being my Lord.  With overflowing gratitude I express my appreciation. Amen.

Pastor Leon
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