Two-minute read.
“And I said, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned.”
Nehemiah 1:5-6
Acknowledge and confess.
Nehemiah begins his prayer by acknowledging God’s sovereignty and confessing his and the nation’s sins. Before the cupbearer makes any requests, he submits to the Lord, recognizing his limited perspective. Acquiring a true sense of the Makers’ awesomeness reveals the depths of human sinfulness. Despite how some people may appear, no one knows everything nor controls the world around them. Only the Creator has the whole picture, knowing the beginning, end, and everything in between.
As we learned yesterday, Nehemiah spent four months fasting and praying before going to the king with his request. During that time, God’s servant didn’t let on the distress of his heart, keeping it between him and the Lord. In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, we find similar instructions:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:6-7
Nehemiah maintained a peaceful heart because he gave his anxiety to God. Acknowledging and confessing his sin began his conversation with the Lord. Connecting with our Maker gives us the strength to persevere as we put into practice His commands. The Lord doesn’t want us living with anxiety-filled hearts; He wants to give us His peace that surpasses all understanding. We can’t access God’s power without acknowledging His presence and confessing our shortcomings.
Exemplifying wisdom, Nehemiah knew where to go and how to start the conversation. In desperation, the cupbearer didn’t act rashly but instead took his anxiety to God, knowing He had the answer. Everyone experiences distress in life; situations happen that we have no control over. But thankfully, we know the One who does. Instead of letting our thoughts and emotions take us down a rabbit trail of anxiety, we can turn to God and find His peace.
If you have time to worry, you have time to pray. Don’t let anxiety engulf you; instead, give it to God. Begin with a simple prayer, “Lord, I need help.” Humbling ourselves before the Creator puts the control in His hands, freeing us from life’s pressures. The Lord promises to take care of us; He’s not surprised by the trials of life. Instead, God wants to lead us through our struggles, giving us peaceful hearts as He gently guides us. Like Nehemiah, we can live with the peace that surpasses all understanding when we acknowledge the Lord’s sovereignty and confess our need for Him.
Journal Questions:
- How can I apply today’s devotion to my life?
- What do you need to confess to the Lord?
- What anxiety do you need to give to God today?
Prayer:
Lord, we acknowledge Your sovereignty in our lives. Forgive us and our nation’s sins as we turn to You. Lead us on the path of righteousness as we submit our lives to Your will. Help us fulfill Your purpose for our lives as we seek You. Give us clear direction, and show us how we can serve You and others well. IJNIP. Amen
