Surrender: Confession, Forgiveness, & Covenant

Nehemiah 9-10

“…the people assembled again, and this time they fasted and dressed in burlap and sprinkled dust on their heads. Those of Israelite descent separated themselves from all foreigners as they confessed their own sins and the sins of their ancestors. They remained standing in place for three hours while the Book of the Law of their Lord was read aloud to them. Then for three more hours they confessed their sins and worshiped the Lord their God.” – Nehemiah 9:1-3

As the crowd gathered, there was seriousness in the air. They had been gathering regularly to hear what God had asked them to do, to listen to the guidelines He had laid out for them.

So why did they go without food and dress differently? As an act of reverence and confession. They had been reminded of all He had done for them – offering protection, providing food, and guiding them to the land where they were currently standing.

Their perspective had changed. They realized their sin, and they desired to get things right with God. So they confessed all the wrong they had done.

We have the same need. As we come before a holy God, we need to ask for God’s forgiveness on a regular basis. Much like a human friendship, when we offend or hurt someone, it impacts our ability to move forward in the relationship. God is ready and more than willing to forgive us if we will humble ourselves and confess the sin He reveals to us.

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