As we continue in our study of Hosea, I am reminded of how important prayers of confession are. I can err on the side of cheapening grace by thinking my sin isn’t that bad, or that God already knows, so confessing is unnecessary or unimportant. Scripture highlights the importance of confessing to God and one another:
“If we confess our sins, God, who is faithful and just, will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:8-9
“Confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed.” James 5:16
Confessing can be difficult when we feel guilt or shame about our sinful nature and tendencies. Satan would love nothing more than for us to remain in that place; isolated, defeated, cast down. The great hope of the gospel is that in Christ, we have forgiveness, healing and restoration.
“If anyone is in Christ, you are a new creation: the old life has passed away; everything has become new! All this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-18
Join me this week in confessing our sins to God and one another, rejoicing in the assurance that we will find forgiveness in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
Prayer of Confession //
Most merciful God,
whose Son Jesus Christ was tempted in every way, yet without sin,
we confess before You our own sinfulness:
we have hungered after that which does not satisfy;
we have compromised with evil;
we have doubted Your power to protect us.
Forgive our lack of faith; have mercy on our weakness.
Restore in us such trust and love that we may walk in Your ways and delight in doing Your will.
Amen.
In Christ,
Mike DeFrees |The Park Midtown Parish Pastor
November Upcoming Events
24th // Thanksgiving Liturgy Service
New App Launched
The Park recently launched its new app. This app serves as a means of equipping the church to do the works of ministry through providing information and teaching. This app has all the latest upcoming invitation sign ups. To download the new app you can click here.
Men’s Prayer
Men’s Prayer takes place in Midtown and MacTerrace every 3rd Friday evening of the month at 8 pm and in Oak Meadow on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 8pm. These are parish specific prayer meetings. To sign up to be contacted by a parish pastor with details and reminders you can click here.