When you sin: RECOGNIZE IT Don't excuse it or forget it. When your actions don't match God's expectations, stop and CONFESS IT Confession is one step beyond recognition in that you now agree with God that the action or attitude was wrong. If possible, it's a good idea to verbalize your confession to God (1 John 1:9) ACCEPT FORGIVENESS FOR IT God is ready to forgive you (Psalm 86:5). This forgiveness doesn't imply a lapse of salvation, but rather it refers to mending a breach of fellowship between you and your heavenly Father. FORSAKE IT Decide ahead of time what you will do when confronted with a temptation to your weakness (Romans 3:14). That may mean purposely avoiding tempting situations or asking someone to make you accountable for your actions. But just as you choose to sin, ask God for the Holy Spirit's aid to choose to avoid sin. "Direct my footsteps according to Your word, let no sin rule over me"(Psalm 119:133).