The Standard January 20, 2024
Most of my need for confession comes from me juxtaposing my place and God’s place. I can allow mistaken notions to creep in — that life is about what I want, what makes sense to me and what makes me comfortable. At times I even entertain notions that with gumption and noble intentions, I can effect change in all kinds of negatives situations, many of which are actually far outside my control. I worry about where society seems to be headed and shake my head at greed and power grabs, forgetting how easy it would be for myself or people I love to go in that direction. Taking the time to soak in the awareness that God is in control despite difficulties we see all around us and to root each day in being in step with God’s will, as revealed in Scripture, changes our attitudes.
Scotty Smith, the Founding Pastor and Pastor Emeritus at Christ Community Church in Franklin, TN shared this lovely prayer of confession. “We confess thinking of ourselves too much and marveling at Jesus too little. We confess it’s easier for us to rush to judgment than to linger in your presence. We confess over-believing our fears and under-resting in the Gospel. We confess scheduling ourselves into bad attitudes and diminishing health. We confess indulging a critical spirit more than seeking your Spirit’s filling. We confess being more upset by the news than being at peace through your Word. We confess making more of other’s sins and weaknesses than our own.”
The Holy Spirit renews a right spirit within us, one which exudes hopefulness and peace. May we this week and this year reflect the encouragement of the Apostle Paul.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:4-9)
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