I’m sitting in a classroom, there are partitions to my left and right so that I can’t copy from my neighbour during the exam. But I try anyway and immediately write down the solution I see. I know full well that this is forbidden. It is a sin, because I have stolen the solution from my neighbour.

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.

James 4:17

The righteous God tells us with this verse in the Bible what his standard is. If everyone adhered to it, there would be no injustice in this world! When we read this statement, however, we have to admit that we are guilty and sinful.

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

John 1:9

God can and will forgive sin. This means that he cancels out the guilt for us and frees us from sin. 

Of course, I had a bad conscience during and after the exam. I couldn’t help it and told the teacher. Admitting the wrong brought me peace, despite the invalid test. 

What can you say to God today? Trust that he will forgive you in Jesus and restore your relationship with him.