Gracious God, I humble myself, laying down the tremendous weight of my violent past. I acknowledge the darkness and pain that came from my actions, and I seek Your healing and forgiveness. Just as Cain’s jealousy led to the tragedy of killing his brother, I recognize that my anger and resentment has led to terrible choices.1
I remember the warnings in Your Word about the consequences of violence. You declare that those who shed innocent blood and practice oppression will face judgment.2 Lord, I confess my past and the harm I have caused others. I ask for Your forgiveness and mercy to cleanse me and restore me to a place of peace and righteousness.
Help me to acknowledge the motivations behind my wrongdoings, as I reflect on how unchecked passions can lead to conflict and strife.3 Teach me to replace those destructive feelings with understanding. As I seek to move forward, I find comfort in knowing that even in tragedy, there is an opportunity for redemption. Stephen, while facing injustice, prayed for those who harmed him, embodying Your love even in a dark moments.4
I long to walk that same path of peace, knowing that I have acted wickedly in the past.5 Let my life reflect the fruits of the Spirit, transforming my anger into love and my violence into peace. Though my past may be filled with regret, I trust that Your grace is sufficient. May Your Holy Spirit guide me in this journey of healing and help me to spread love rather than hate.
Thank You for always being present and ready to extend forgiveness, allowing me to rise above the darkness of my past, in Jesus’ name, Amen.