God exhibits the perfect standard of righteousness through His character and work. Any person desiring to know the right way to do something should look to the Lord for his example. The Bible says that God gives liberally to man. If one needs wisdom, all he need do is to ask the Lord for wisdom and God promises to give man the wisdom and to give it in a liberal fashion. Fortunately, this promise is not in any way restricted exclusively to wisdom but also includes the manner in which God gives to man in other areas of life. Look no further than Calvary for proof of this truth. At Calvary, God gave liberally in the sacrifice of His Son. As a result of that sacrifice, God promises that whosoever will can come to God for salvation. Since God gives so liberally to man, how should man give to God?
A careful study of our text helps to eliminate the controversy concerning confession. We have already seen that the Bible teaches that confession of sins is to be made only to God. Yet, our passage tells us to confess one to another. Yet, the Bible stipulates that the confession involves one's faults. The difference between sins and faults is quite simple. A fault is not a sin, but rather an area of weakness that could lead to sin. We do not profit from confessing our sins to each other or even to “religious leaders.” However, the Bible reveals the benefits derived from confessing that we covet the prayers of others to help overcome our areas of weakness. Perhaps, these brothers and sisters in Christ will fervently pray and even lend support and advice. This is why it is important to confess our sincere desire for their prayers. Unfortunately, misapplication of this passage to bodily healing has caused confusion. The context involves healing in areas of spiritual weaknesses, not simply a need for the body to be healed.
