From Rubble to RestorationSample

Confession Time

Sometimes the beginning of healing starts with confession.  We all have done bad things in our lives.  We’ve made sinful choices and may still be living with the consequences. When we sin, shame keeps us holding onto that sin.  We hide it in the deepest recesses of our hearts in hopes that no one will see it, but it still has its effect on us.

Confession is the means of release, admitting that we are wrong and asking God to forgive us.  We may have hurt people and need to confess what we did and ask for their forgiveness.  It’s very hard and humbling to do, but holding onto the sin and shame can actually hinder your healing.  

The Israelites had gathered again, but this time they weren’t in the joyful mood that we read about in chapter 8.  They substituted their joy with fasting and wearing of sackcloth, an external sign of sorrow and repentance.  Their purpose in gathering was to confess to the Lord how they and their forefathers had rebelled against Him. 

We see a great summary of the cycle of rebellion and forgiveness in this chapter.  The priests recalled all the good things the Lord did for His people, from the parting of the Red Sea to conquering their enemies.  Yet, sadly, when things were going well, the people drifted away from God and chased other idols and pleasures.  They left their first love, the love of the Lord.  

But, oh, to see the compassion and faithfulness of God!  Time after time, He delivered His people. Why?  Because He loved them just like He loves you and me.  Nothing you have done will ever separate you from the love of God.  So, it’s confession time. 

Questions:

1.  Is there something weighing on your heart that you need to confess to God?

2.  What is the correlation between holding onto hidden sin and your body’s health? 

3.  Is there someone to whom you need to ask for forgiveness?