Devotion:
Read Nehemiah 9:1-3.
After a joyous Festival of Tabernacles, Nehemiah then led the assembly to fasting. They humbled themselves before God and threw dust on their heads, while wearing sackcloth. The Israelites separated themselves from the foreigners, as the Hebrews knew that it was their sins that needed to be forgiven. They acknowledged the sins of their nation, which had led them into exile. Their corporate prayers and confession demonstrated a deep understanding of the nature of sin. The Israelites could have been angry that their predecessors messed up. They could have spent time complaining about the choices of their leaders and the lack of godliness displayed by the previous generations, which had led them to where they were right now. However, instead of hanging on to hatred and grievances, they turned to God in humility and confession.
The people read from the book of the law for a fourth of the day, and for another fourth they confessed sin and worshiped God. Reading the Torah was central to confession, the scriptures having come from God. Through our reading of the Bible, God draws near to us, and the Holy Spirit can speak to us and teach us. The truth of His Word molds our thinking and understanding, encourages and lifts us up. Spending time in God’s holy presence makes us aware of His goodness while impressing upon us how amazing it is that the Creator of the universe chooses to be with us, despite our unworthiness. Only with God working in us can we be who we should be.
Personal Worship Option:
Dear God, we ask that you help us recognize our sinfulness and turn to you for forgiveness. Make us mindful of previous wrongs to others before us, so that we can be aware of hurt in others. Amen.
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