"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9).

This familiar promise is often quoted as a sort of pat formula for dealing with sin in a believer's life. Simply identify and acknowledge the sin, and all is forgiven.

"For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish" (Psalm 1:6).

"If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me" (Psalm 66:18).

"Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him" (Isaiah 43:7).