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[expand title=”Devotion Text”]Ezra 10:1
While Ezra prayed and made confession, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, a very great assembly of men, women, and children, gathered to him out of Israel, for the people wept bitterly.
True confession is not a flippant, “I’m sorry.” Neither is it a regretful, “I’m sorry I got caught.” It begins with an understanding that our sin is in direct opposition to the heavenly Father who loves us so much that he sent his only Son to die for us on the cross. It includes a deep remorse for knowing what God said to do and refusing to do it or knowing what God said not to do and doing it anyway.
Notice the emotion of today’s passage. Ezra was praying, confessing, weeping, and throwing himself on the ground prostrate before God. His sorrow for the sins of the people was deep, heartfelt, and visible. Israel’s sins had led them to captivity. Now, after many had returned to rebuild the temple, Ezra wanted the people to begin with a clean slate.
What about you? Anything you need to bring before God in true confession? God is waiting with open arms for you.
Talking Points
- Lord, search me and make known my heart. Show me where I am missing the mark.
- Please give me true remorse and a desire to turn from my sin and turn to you.
Father, thank you for not only providing the remedy for our sins but also a way to confess our sins before you and keep a clean slate. Thank you for the promise that if we confess our sins you will forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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