Daily Devotion for March 12, 2025

Devotion:

For an audio version of this devotion, click here.

Read 1 John 1:8-9.

John Wesley emphasized both the reality of human sin and the transformative power of God’s grace. He taught that while all people are born into sin, God’s grace is at work in us, calling us to repentance and leading us toward holiness.  

In this passage, we see two crucial Wesleyan themes: 1) conviction of sin, and 2) God’s sanctifying grace. First, we must acknowledge that sin is real in our lives. To deny our need for grace is to deceive ourselves. But confession is the key to experiencing not only forgiveness but also the deeper cleansing work of God. Wesley would highlight that forgiveness is not the end goal—it is the beginning of a journey toward entire sanctification, where God purifies our hearts and empowers us to live in victory over sin.  

How are these themes applied in our life?

1. Conviction and Repentance – Allow the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where sin still lingers. True repentance is more than feeling sorry—it is a turning away from sin and toward God.  

2. Justifying Grace– When we confess, God is faithful to forgive. This is the moment of justification, where we are made right with God through Christ.

  

3. Sanctifying Grace – God doesn’t just forgive; He cleanses us from all unrighteousness. This points to ongoing sanctification, the work of the Holy Spirit making us holy and shaping us into the likeness of Christ. 

 

4. Walking in Holiness – Wesley taught that through grace, we can grow in love, overcoming sin’s power. We are called to move beyond just being forgiven to being transformed.  

In the Wesleyan tradition, salvation is not merely about escaping judgment but about being transformed into Christ’s likeness. Confession is not just about being made right with God—it is an invitation into a life of holiness. Keep seeking His grace, and He will continue His cleansing work in you! 

Personal Worship Option:

Holy and Loving God, I confess that I have sinned and fallen short of Your glory. But I thank You for Your faithfulness—that through Christ, I am forgiven. Lord, do not only forgive me but cleanse me. Continue Your sanctifying work in my heart, that I may grow in holiness and love. By Your grace, help me to walk in the light and live a life that reflects Your righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.