“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
God isn’t moved by prideful complaining, but he does listen to humble confessing.
God responds to humility. Many people hesitate to admit their sins, but God already knows about all your sin! He knows every mistake you've ever made in your entire life. He just wants you to confess them. He wants you to show humility.
When you are humble before God, he doesn’t respond with punishment. He responds with forgiveness, mercy, and blessing. God’s not going to take you down—that’s what your pride does. When you humbly confess your sin, God is quick to forgive. He gives grace to the humble.
The Greek word for “confess” is homologeo. It combines homo, meaning “same,” with logeo, meaning “to speak.” So homologeo literally means to speak the same thing or to agree. You say to God, “You're right. That was a sin. I don't want to make excuses for it. You told me not to do it, but I did it anyway. It was wrong. It was rebellion against you.”
Daniel said, “We have sinned and done wrong”—but he didn't just stop there: “We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws. We have not listened to your servants . . . Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame” (Daniel 9:5-7 NIV).
Daniel got very specific with his confession, and you need to as well. Don’t lump all your sins from today together, as if you’re too busy or embarrassed or prideful to name them. God wants you to be specific, because he wants you to know what not to do again.
Knowing that the Israelites didn’t deserve God's blessing, Daniel threw himself on the grace of God. When you humbly confess your sin to God, you are surrendering your will to his. You are acknowledging your weakness and asking for God’s mercy. God’s answer is always grace.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV).
In what areas of your life do you need to humbly agree with God about your sin?
Why do you think you are sometimes hesitant to be specific with your confession?
How will you live out 2 Chronicles 7:14 and seek God’s face and confess your sin today?
Are you ready to receive God’s forgiveness and mercy?
You can do that by accepting his love and inviting Jesus into your heart right now. Start with this simple prayer:
“Dear God, you have promised that if I believe in your Son, Jesus Christ, everything I’ve ever done wrong will be forgiven, I will learn the purpose of my life, and you will accept me into your eternal home in heaven one day.
"I confess I have sinned, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus died to take away my sins and that you raised him to life. I want to trust Jesus as my Savior and follow him as Lord from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do your will. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen."
If you just prayed to accept Jesus, please email me at Rick@PastorRick.com and let me know about it. I’d like to send you some free materials to help you start your journey with Jesus.
