Passage of the Day:
But the righteousness that is by faith says: “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’”[b] (that is, to bring Christ down) 7 “or ‘Who will descend into the deep?’”[c] (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). 8 But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,”[d] that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame,” Romans 10:6-11.
Reflection:
Congregations across the country and throughout the world stress specific spiritual disciplines. As readers begin the second week of July, these next 7 days will cover spiritual disciplines that I found from a series of top 10 spiritual discipline lists. Confession was the top spiritual discipline on a number of these online sites I researched. During a seminary class entitled Revival and Revivalism, I learned that the second Great Awakening began when a young man was overcome by a spirit of conviction. This act of confession cut to the heart of those in attendance, spurring others to go up front and confess their sins as well. This is the power of genuine acts of confession.
Prayerful Action:
Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy, Proverbs 28:13.
Working Out Your Salvation:
As educators in America continue to teach students victimology, taking personal responsibility for your own actions has become a thing of the past. Subsequently, setting the stage for a spirit of confession is foreign to many young people. Yet, to those who carve out time for God to read and study the Bible daily, the Holy Spirit will bring to the surface areas of your life that need improving. When this wave of confession touches your soul, don’t be afraid to open up by pouring out your heart. Just like previous spiritual awakenings, your act of confession will inspire others to follow in your footsteps.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
The attached song was my go-to song in college when I was struggling spiritually. While the lyrics are very basic, the title Messed Up sends a message to others it’s okay to confess your shortcomings. Follow Jesus’ advice in Matthew 11:28-30 to unload your spiritual baggage at the feet of Jesus in the form of confession.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 