Step 5: “Admitted to God, ourselves, and another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.”
Devotion: Coming Clean Before Jesus
If you are new, Step 5 may sound frightening. Why bring everything into the open?
Because Jesus already sees it — and still loves you.
From the beginning, humanity’s instinct after sin was to hide. But Jesus came not to expose us for shame, but to invite us into truth.
Confession is not informing Jesus.
It is agreeing with Him.
It is stepping out of hiding and into relationship.
He does not recoil at your honesty. He meets it with mercy.
Bible Example:
In John 8, a woman caught in adultery was brought before Jesus. He did not deny her sin — but He did not condemn her either. He met her with truth and mercy.
Reflection Questions:
1. Where am I still hiding from Jesus?
2. Do I believe He meets confession with mercy?
Prayer:
Heavenly, Father, I come out of hiding. You already know my story. Give me courage to tell the truth. Help me to come clean as our heavenly Father desires. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Action Step:
Sit quietly with your Step 4 inventory. Invite Jesus into it again. Thank Him for what He has already revealed. Prepare your heart for full confession, remembering: You are coming to a Savior who loves you, not a judge.
Bible Scripture to consider
1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…”
