Daily Devo
Love means saying you're sorry
By: John Carrigan
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
"Love means never having to say you're sorry" was a catchphrase that came from a popular movie in the 1970’s called Love Story. It sounds sweet, and it may look good on a coffee cup, but it’s untrue. Real love requires accountability.
Christ Followers aren’t sinless, but after our salvation, we should start sinning less. Following Jesus Christ means we're continually moving forward. Who we once were is left behind as we become more like Jesus. Our transformation won't be complete until heaven, but we know the Lord always finishes what He starts!
Paul knew his letters would hurt the Corinthians feelings, but He also knew the Corinthian church needed correction. Through God’s grace, Paul's words helped lead many of them to repentance. But I must admit, my actions aren't always as well-meaning as Paul's. In my younger days I would sometimes hurt my wife with my words and then claim ignorance. I would tell her, “What did I say that was so bad?” But if I'm truthful, I already knew... To the unrepentant mind, denial is much easier than admitting we're wrong.
I would eventually tell my wife I was sorry, but I didn’t always mean it. Then God revealed His heart for me and my family through His Word and His Spirit. Worldly sorrow wants to avoid painful conversations that come with real dialogue. Godly sorrow comes when we realize our hurtful words and actions are offensive to God. Truth can be painful, but God is pleased when we speak the truth in love. Correction can be painful, but it may lead to a changed heart. It's the right thing to do, but if you’re like me, we may need to work on our delivery!
God loves humility. When we admit we are wrong, Godly sorrow will motivate us to repent. We can’t take bad behavior and inappropriate words back, but God’s love, grace, and mercy can heal the wounds they created. When we repent, the Holy Spirit will help us not make those same mistakes again. If we’ve hurt someone, we must apologize sincerely and contritely. After prayer, a heart-felt apology may be the best way to heal a broken relationship.
That saying from the 70's had it backwards. Real love means admitting our guilt and saying we're sorry!