Confession: The First Step to Healing

I don’t know about you, but in my past, I’ve struggled to confess my sins and struggles to others. Whether it was fear of judgment or the weight of shame, I had a bad habit of keeping everything bottled up. That habit led to deeper issues and delayed the healing I so desperately needed.

I remember one of the hardest moments during my struggles with addiction was admitting that I had relapsed—again. I didn’t want to come broken and seek healing. I wanted to come healed, as if I could fix my problems on my own. But the longer I kept things hidden, the longer I remained trapped.

It wasn’t until I finally opened up to those around me about what was really happening—both inside and in the dark places—that healing began. I had to drop the mask of “I’m good” and admit the truth: I was struggling.

To my surprise, what I received wasn’t shame or condemnation. Instead, I was met with open arms, support, and so much encouragement from the Celebrate Recovery community I had surrounded myself with at my local church. I remember thinking, Why didn’t I do this sooner?

Healing is a process, but it starts with confession. James 5:16 reminds us, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” God doesn’t ask us to be perfect before we come to Him or to others. He calls us to be honest, vulnerable, and willing to seek help.

Reflection Question

What’s one area of your life that you’ve been hesitant to share or confess to others? How can you take a step toward openness and healing today?

Prayer

Father, I confess that I often try to carry my struggles on my own. Teach me to be honest and vulnerable, trusting in Your promise that healing begins with confession. Surround me with people who will support me in love and grace, and give me the courage to drop the mask and seek help. Thank You for Your unfailing mercy and for the community You place around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.