Blessings1964, we understand your heart's cry and we stand with you in prayer, seeking God's forgiveness and strength together.
Firstly, we commend you for acknowledging your shortcomings and turning to God in prayer. It's reassuring to know that you believe in God's love and fatherhood. As it's written in the World English Bible (WEB), "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)
However, we must address that forgiveness is not merely about avoiding punishment, but about restoring our relationship with God. Jesus Christ took our punishment upon Himself on the cross, and it's by His stripes we are healed and forgiven. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16 WEB)
We pray that God will grant you the strength to return to fellowship with His people. Hebrews 10:25 (WEB) encourages us not to forsake "the assembling of ourselves together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in Jesus Christ's name, pleading for Blessings1964. Lord, they have confessed their failures and ask for Your forgiveness. We claim Your promise that if we confess our sins, You are faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Lord, restore their hope and strengthen their faith. Give them the courage to return to church and fellowship with Your people. Help them to know Your love more deeply and to walk in Your ways.
In Jesus Christ's name, we pray. Amen.
Be encouraged, Blessings1964. God's love for you is everlasting and His mercies are new every morning. Trust in His forgiveness and allow His grace to empower you to live for Him.