Is God really willing to forgive this

You Can Be Forgiven—Even for That: What 1 John 1:9 Really Means for You

“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 (NIV)

If you’ve ever whispered, “God can’t possibly forgive me for this…”—you’re not alone.

We often believe that there’s a limit to God’s grace and that he'll stop loving us if we keep messing up. Especially when we’ve made choices we’re ashamed of, gone back to toxic cycles, or feel like we’ve failed God one too many times. But one thing that has never changed is our Creator, our Yhwh, our Lord and Savior. The great thing about the New Testament is that when Father sent Jesus down here to teach us Father's ways and lessons, He left a road map for us before He left Earth and returned back to the Heavens. 1 John 1:9 gently silences any fears and reminds us that our forgiveness doesn’t depend on our performance—it depends on God's promise. When we're wallowing in self-pity and self-shame it's easy for us to forget Father's promises, but that doesn't mean that He has.

Let’s unpack this verse, line by line, and we can talk about the hidden fears we carry when it comes to receiving forgiveness.

“If we confess our sins…”

Confession isn't about grovelling in shame—it’s about being honest. It's that heart-to-heart moment with God where you stop pretending and start surrendering.

Common fear #1: “What if I mess up again after confessing?”
We often think confession has to come with perfection or that we’ll disappoint God if we stumble again. But confession isn’t a one-time pass. It’s a relationship rhythm. God isn’t surprised by your humanity—He just wants your heart to be soft and surrendered.

“He is faithful and just…”

This part is so powerful. It reminds us that God's forgiveness is rooted in who He is, not what we’ve done.

Common fear #2: “I don’t deserve forgiveness.”
You’re right—you don’t. None of us do. But that’s exactly what makes grace so beautiful. It’s not about deserving; it’s about receiving. God is faithful to forgive not because you’re perfect, but because Jesus paid the price for you already. And He’s just—He won’t demand a second payment for a debt already covered.

“…and will forgive us our sins…”

Forgiveness is not a maybe, it’s a will. It’s a divine promise. No hesitation. No grudges. No reminders of your past thrown in your face.

Common fear #3: “But my sin is too big…”
Let’s be real—some sins feel heavier. Abortion. Adultery. Addiction. Years of ignoring God. But there is no sin the blood of Jesus cannot cover. His forgiveness isn’t partial—it’s total. And it’s immediate when you come to Him with a sincere heart.

“…and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Not only are you forgiven—you're cleansed. That means the stain is gone. You don’t have to walk around like you’re still dirty. When God forgives, He also restores.

Common fear #4: “I feel forgiven, but I still feel broken.”
Forgiveness doesn’t always come with instant emotional healing. Sometimes, the shame lingers even after the sin is gone. But purification is a process, and God doesn’t just want to forgive you—He wants to rebuild you. Your story doesn’t end at forgiveness. It begins there.

If 1 John 1:9 teaches us anything, it’s this:
You are never too far gone for the grace of God. His forgiveness is faithful, just, and available—today.

You don’t have to carry shame another day.
You don’t have to prove yourself worthy.
You just have to come. Confess. Believe. Receive.

And then… walk forward. Not with your head down, but with your heart clean and your spirit free.

Ending Prayer for You

Lord, I confess every place where I’ve missed the mark. Thank You that Your forgiveness isn’t based on my perfection, but on Your promise. Purify me. Restore me. Help me walk in freedom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Related Scriptures You Can Prayer On:

• Psalm 103:12 – "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us."

• Isaiah 1:18 – “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”

• Romans 8:1 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Join to Our Virtual Faith Book Club!
As a member, you’ll receive early access to each chapter one week before our group discussion—plenty of time to read, reflect, and connect.

This is a beautiful space to share your love for Christian fiction, grow in faith, and support fellow authors and readers on their journey.
Thank you for joining us

If you enjoy reading Faith novels and short stories, I would love it if you'll consider joining our Virtual Book Club below.

It was an absolute pleasure to spend these few moments with you. I hope that this message has blessed you. Be sure to catch our next chapter drop on Friday, Chapter 5 in the first book of From Shadows to Light, The Awakening Series.

Love Always, Val