Caught, Confession, Change

By: Keefe Wilson

Monday, December 29, 2025

Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord." And you forgave the guilt of my sin. Psalm 32:5

Have you ever been caught doing something wrong? I know I have. As a child, right before Christmas break, I had to take an exam I hadn't studied for. So, I snuck into the classroom early and wrote tiny notes on my desk. I took the test, and I got a perfect score! I thought I had pulled it off, but just like the bible says, my sin didn't stay hidden long.

When the next class started, a student found my notes and told the teacher. She confronted me and asked me if I had cheated. When I realized I was caught, I broke down and confessed. My teacher changed my grade to an F and notified my parents. I ended up getting a spanking from both of them! One from my mom, and another one from my dad when he got home. They scolded me, and they even threatened to take away my Christmas presents. In that moment, I remember praying, "Lord, forgive me, I'll never cheat again... just please don't take my presents!"

There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. Luke 12:2

Looking back, I realize God used those events to teach me to stop cheating and to remind me that hidden will always be revealed. Sometimes, we may view “getting caught” as our punishment—due to the shame or fear we incur. Getting exposed can feel like the worst possible outcome. But what if getting caught isn't punishment? What if it's God’s mercy at work—designed to bring us to a "turning point" of our spiritual journey?

When we are completely surrendered to Christ, a painful consequence can become an instrument of change. That's why our opening verse reminds us how powerful confession and repentance are. Instead of deflecting blame and making excuses, we must take responsibility for our actions. Then, we must acknowledge our sins to God and confess them with a humble heart.

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

2026 is almost here. Now is a great time to confess our sins to God. He doesn't want to punish us; He wants to help us change! After all, it's better to do if now before our sin gets exposed. Trust God! Don’t run away from Him, run to Him! Don't be embarrassed, repentance and confession are two critical steps of our spiritual journey!