I've been thinking lately about how many times in our Christian lives we use phrases or words to describe, defend, or justify ourselves. Now there is nothing inherently wrong with some of these things, but I wonder if we may use them to avoid being honest and completely straightforward.For example, think about the common expression (not just among Christians) of "I'm sorry." The words "I'm sorry" mean to say, "I feel bad." They do not admit any guilt at all. If someone drops and breaks a glass, it may be appropriate for me to say "I'm sorry." It wasn't my fault they dropped the glass. I just feel bad for them, I can sympathize with their embarrassment, and I'm glad I don't have to clean it up!
There's a big difference between "I'm sorry" and "I was wrong— will you forgive me?" The first expresses our dismay at the unpleasant circumstances in which we find ourselves, while the latter assumes responsibility for them. The first does nothing to make amends for the situation, while the second seeks restoration.
Maybe some other examples would include "I have been struggling with __________" or "I haven't done all that I should" or "I have backslidden" when what we should be saying is "I have sinned and disobeyed God." Joseph didn't mince words when he refused Potiphar's wife's solicitation: "How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" (Gen 39:9).
It may damage our "self-image" a little, but think about being painfully honest with yourself and others the next time you are tempted to speak euphemistically about your sin. James encourages us to confess our sins to each other and pray for one another. In fact, that is the context of the phrase about prayer that we quote often: "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working" (James 5:16).
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