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Date: | Sat, 2 Sep 2006 05:33:57 -0500 |
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PRAYER OF REPENTANCE
by Suzanne Benner
One kind of prayer that is easy to neglect because it is difficult do, is a
prayer of repentance. Yet the Bible reminds us that sin which we refuse to
confess or acknowledge is a barrier between us and God.
"If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened"
(Psalm 66:18).
"He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and
renounces them finds mercy" (Proverbs 28:13).
Although admitting our bad attitudes, destructive behaviour and wrong
reactions to God is painful, we have a wonderful guarantee from God. He has
promised that regardless of the deeds we have done, if we confess, He will
forgive. Period. End of story.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our
sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
That promise is what makes the onerous task of confession possible.
God forgives us, not because we deserve it, but because of His unfailing
love for us.
David provides an excellent example of a prayer of repentance for us to
follow:
"Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love; according to
Your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity
and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is
always before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil
in Your sight, so that You are proved right when You speak and justified
when You judge" (Psalm 51:1-4).
Recognizing and admitting that the wrong things we do are against God isn't
easy, but amazing forgiveness and freedom await all who pray a prayer of
repentance.
About the Author: This devotional was written by Suzanne Benner. Learn more
about Suzanne: http://www.tmdevotionals.com/women/authors/suzanne-benner/
Going Deeper
1. Consider these questions: How have you experienced the barrier that sin
puts up between you and God? Why did David think his sin was against God? Do
you have a story to share of the release God has brought to your life
through confession?
2. Comment on the devotional blog. Interact with others who are reading
today's devotional. Visit http://tmdevotionals.com/women/ and double click
on "Comment" (just under the devotional title).
3. Chat: Join us for a 15-minute chat at 10:30 am Eastern, 7:30 am Pacific:
http://www.christianwomentoday.com/chat
4. Further Bible study on repentance and God's power:
http://www.journeyofjoy.com/biblestudies/study3.html
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