Identification in Prayer
SCRIPTURE
To us, O LORD, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. - Daniel 9:8-11a
OBSERVATION
The humility and heart of Daniel in his prayer is unbelievable. Here was a godly, righteous and upright prophet of God who chose to identify himself in confession of sin in his intercessory prayer. The old adage of “If being a Christian is illegal would there be any evidence of it in your life to convict you” reveals telling truth. Daniel was so godly that he actually was put in jail for obeying God and praying. Yet he identified himself as a sinner along with Israel for rebellion, disobedience and treachery. Genuine spirituality is realizing and coming to terms with one’s own brokenness in confession. It is not masking and covering our guilt with self righteousness.
APPLICATION
Points of obedience: Approach all life with humility.
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Prayer: Identify myself with this nation and community in our sin when I pray and confess wholeheartedly. Function as a prophet in intercession for our nation for revival and renewal.
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Bible: Don’t cast judgement on those who have fallen but identify in their weakness and sin.
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Relationship: Be quick to confess and repent especially to Renee and kids.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
I humble myself before you. Please forgive me of my self righteousness and cleanse me of any blind spot sins that I am unaware of. Would you help me to continue to pray for our nation, government and our leaders? Thank you for exposing blind spots in my life that need repentance.