Correcting Mistakes

“Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13 ESV)

Everybody Stumbles

“For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” (James 3:2 ESV)

Deal With It—Don’t Deny or Cover It Up

When you make a mistake, you can either deny it and try to cover it up, or you can acknowledge it for what it is and take appropriate steps to make it right. That may include repentance from sin, making restitution, and seeking forgiveness from those you have wronged—and most importantly, from God.

One biblical example is King David, who committed adultery and then tried to cover it up by having the woman's husband killed. But in Psalm 51, we see David’s genuine repentance:

“Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.” (Psalm 51:1–2 NLT)

Humble Yourself

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6–7 ESV)

“Though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.” (Psalm 37:24 ESV)

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9 ESV)

Therefore

Don’t hide your failures—bring them into the light of God’s mercy. Confess, repent, and walk in humility. God's forgiveness is sure for those who turn to Him. No matter how badly you’ve stumbled, the Lord is able to restore you and use your life to proclaim His goodness.

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19)

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” ( 2 Chron. 7:14)