"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

Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, says that, Confess in the Greek is HOMOLOGEO; here in 1 John 1:9 it is defined as "to declare openly by way of speaking out freely, such confession being the effect of deep conviction of facts."

Proverbs 28:13 says,
"He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy."

In Vine's definition that confession is 'of deep conviction,' This brings to mind repentance. Let's see what Scripture tells of repentance.

Vine's says of repentance, METANOIA, "In the New Testament the subject chiefly has reference to repentance from sin, and this change of mind involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God."
Notice it is two fold! Not just away from, but specifically turning to God.
The turning to has no other options. True repentance comes from a godly sorrow.

"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." 2 Corinthians 7:10

Repentance derives from a gift --
Of God:
In his defense to the circumcision in Jerusalem, Peter says in Acts 11:18, "When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, 'So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.'"
(Read Peter defense Vs. 1-18)

Of Christ:
When Peter and the apostles were brought before the Sanhedrin to be questioned, they spoke out, "God exalted Him (Jesus) to His own right hand as Prince and Savior that He might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel." Acts 5:31 (Read how the apostles were persecuted by the religious leaders Vs. 17-42)

Things leading to repentance--
God's patience:
"The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness.
He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9

God's kindness (The NKJV says goodness):
"Or do you show contempt for the riches of His kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you towards repentance?
Romans 2:4

Conviction of sin:
"When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?'"
"Peter replied, 'Repent, and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" Acts 2:37-38

Repentance produces--
Life:
Read again Acts 11:18 above.

Forgiveness of sins:
"And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins." Mark 1:4

A new heart and a new spirit:
"...Repent.  Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit." Ezekiel 18:30-31

Joy:
"...There will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." Luke 15:7 "...There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." Vs. 10

Thank you Lord God for your love, patience, goodness and mercy! We honor  and adore You! Amen