Confessions

O. T. #1,029  "Confessions"
July 26, 2017
Ezra 9-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

They say that confession is good for the soul. I agree, for through confession of our sins, we can get cleansed. (Asking Jesus to forgive us.) However, some folks seem to find it hard to admit they have done a wrong, made a mistake, and sinned. In order to keep our relationships going good, there are times we need to confess our wrongs to God and to others. Even if they will not admit their part of the wrong, we still should. This will heal our relationships. The first returnees of Jews had strayed from God and His teachings. Ezra confesses their sins, as we learn reading this chapter.

In this chapter we read of Ezra's prayer of confessions-God's goodness, Israel's past sins, and present sins.
First, Ezra confessed God's goodness as He had:

• left them a remnant;
• given them a place in the Promise Land;
• given them light;
• given them relief from captivity;
• not deserted them even in their bondage;
• revived them and given them new life so they could rebuild the Temple;
• given them a wall of protection (His power) in the Promised Land.

Can we look back and see the goodness of God in our life?
Has He set us free from a certain thing which held us in bondage?
Has God revived us and given us new life with a purpose?
Did He give us a wall of protection?
Do we have His light to direct us as we live in this world?
Are we looking for our Promised Land-heaven?

LET IT GROW

Ezra confessed the same and past sins of Israel when they forsook Him and worshiped idols.
Also, Ezra confessed Israel's present sins, which had placed them back in bondage. Israel had:

• forsaken God's commandments, engaged in the corrupt, detestable, and impure behavior of their unbelieving neighbors;
• intermarried with unbelievers;
• sought evil associations of friendships, social life, and wealth of unbelievers;
• jeopardized the future by rejecting the promise of God to make them strong, blessed, and land given to children.

Are we following in the steps of our unbelieving fellow worker, neighbors, or relatives?
Are we separating ourselves to liv morally, righteously, and peacefully? We can associate with them, but not socialize with them and take on their was.

(Resource: The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible)

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of our mind, that ye my prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.  Romans 12:2


LET IT GO

Stay in God's Word.

Live separated from unbelievers, but love them to Jesus.

Confess God's goodness in my life to others.