December 17 THE PERFECT CLEANSER "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9, NKJV). The Tide detergent slogan insists that "Tide gets the stains that others leave behind." However, the one and only detergent for the stains of sin is the precious blood of Jesus. When applied in faith, it washes whiter than snow, and surely no stains are left behind. The cleansing power of our Redeemer is thorough. It cleanses from "all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9, NKJV). This comprehensive statement indicates the thoroughness of God's removal of our sins when they are confessed and forsaken. Because all sins defile, when the sinner is forgiven, he or she is also cleansed from the sins for which forgiveness has been granted. King David understood the relationship between forgiveness and cleansing. He prayed, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10). Forgiveness and cleansing may well be two sides to the same coin with justification on one side and sanctification on the other. When Christ forgives the repentant sinner, he is put right with God. This introduces a new day-by-day experience of cleansing and growth through the enabling power of Christ who keeps us clean until we become altogether like Him. From God's perspective, there is a guarantee of forgiveness and cleansing for those who sincerely confess faith in Christ. Because of God's faithfulness, our cleansing is thorough and complete. The divine detergent leaves no stain behind. "Your sins may be as mountains before you; but if you humble your heart, and confess your sins, trusting in the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, He will forgive, and will cleanse you from all unrighteousness."--The Faith I Live By, p. 128. My Prayer Today: Lord, With David, I seek You as the perfect cleanser. Create a clean heart in me, I pray. Amen.