Today is September 13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from Psalm 32.

1 Blessed is the one
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
2 Blessed is the one
whose sin the LORD does not count against them
and in whose spirit is no deceit.
3 When I kept silent,
my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night
your hand was heavy on me;
my strength was sapped
as in the heat of summer.
5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you
and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, “I will confess
my transgressions to the LORD.”
And you forgave
the guilt of my sin.

It’s not easy to reflect on our own sin... and actually acknowledging our sin is sometimes even more difficult. The psalmist writes that we are blessed, though, when we acknowledge our sin, confess it, and see forgiveness. As you enter into prayer, can you invite the Lord to help you see one area of sin that is present in you? It might be an action, or an inaction. It could be an attitude, or a behavior. Take a few moments to examine your heart and your choices and see what God calls to your attention.

Scripture gives us a tool – confession – that helps us navigate our way through and past our sins, or sinful patters. Confession is the act of speaking honestly about our areas of brokenness... and is accompanied by repentace... which is the act of turning away from sin toward holiness. Listen again, and prepare your heart for the opportunity to pray a prayer of confession to the Lord.

God forgives the guilt of our sins. With this truth in mind, we’ll end our time of prayer in confession....... can you talk to the Lord about what has come to mind? …............ Take time now to ask God for His gift of forgiveness, and abide with Him as you experience His grace.

Music Credit:
"You're All I Need" - Heaven & Earth (YouTube)