When I lead small group Bible studies, we often end with “highs and lows.” We talk about a spiritual high (a blessing, sanctified choice, temptation resisted, etc.) and a spiritual low (a mistake, sinful decision, temptation indulged, etc.). Often, these confessions bring Christians closer together.

But there’s a question many of us ask ourselves when it’s our turn—How low will you go? Will you tell the group that? What would they do if they knew about the pills, the pornography, the disordered eating, the divorce, or whatever else feels too messy to confess out loud?

I know those are nerve-racking confessions. But the Bible has a pattern of talking about the lowest of lows. Can you think of King David’s sin? Or apostle Paul’s? I can, because the Bible talks about the sins of its saints.

Why does God lean toward specific confessions? So you would know his forgiveness is specifically for you. Paul wrote, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life” (1 Timothy 1:15,16).

Your honest confession is an example that Jesus is immensely patient and supremely forgiving. Is today the day to talk about that? Don’t be afraid. You are already safe because of the love of Jesus.