Prayer Journal

Sunday, December 24, 2000
359/7
Read the Bible through in OneYear

A public confession of sin is hard to do. One reason for this is that some people do not trust the intention or motive of other people. Such distrust, I'm afraid runs rampant in most churches.

One way to overcome such skepticism is by the offender offering something in addition to his confession. That is the essence of restitution. But, before a person can make it right with others, they must also know the extent of how others have been offended. Restitution must then, incorporate personal sacrifice on order to be perceived as genuine.

The prophet, Samuel had done what God asked him to do. He had anointed Saul as the first king of Israel and served the people faithfully his entire life. What was his final service to the people? Samuel stood before them and made sure no one had ought, or "something to hold", against him. This was to be Samuel's farewell speech.

"Here I stand. Testify against me in the presence of the Lord and his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated? Whom have I oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to make me shut my eyes? If I have done any of these things, I will make it right." 1 Sam 12:3

What happened that day in Israel is not too different from what should happen every day of our lives. Samuel was about to bless the people. In other words, he was about to pray for those God led him to serve. But, before he prayed, he needed to make sure he was ready to do so. Anything else would be irresponsible on his part.

"If I've done anything, I want to make it right." What would happen in our churches if we started our meetings like that? And what would happen if the congregation responded in total honesty? And what would happen if people began to deal with their wrongs toward one another, making things right with each other? And what would happen, if people starting removing obstacles that had come between them and other church members? What if people started going to each other to make sure everything was ok between them?

I don't know about you, but is sounds like revival birth "pangs" to me.   
Just Thinkin'.. WebServant

 

(1) Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society
(2) The images used herein were obtained from the Learning Company's ClickArt Christian Graphics Deluxe product, (c)1999 The Learning Company, Inc and its subsidiaries, 88 Roland Way, Novato, CA 94945 USA. All Rights Reserved.

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