READ Nehemiah 9
Upon hearing the Law, the people publicly confess their transgressions.

INSIGHT
Paul says in the New Testament that it was not until he heard the Law that he was conscious of sin. How true! It is not until you know the truth that the truth can set you free (John 8:32). The returning Jewish people experience this truth in a dramatic way. Upon hearing the Law, Israel repents of her sins and rededicates herself to serving the Lord. This repentance clears her conscience, results in rich worship, and makes her eligible for the blessings of the Lord. It sets her free! Repentance will do the same for you.

PRAYER
Because the Lord preserves us through spiritual battles, offer your praises as you read this psalm:
It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
To sing praise to your name, Most High,  
To declare your faithful love in the morning
And your faithfulness at night
For you have made me rejoice, Lord,
By what you have done; I will shout for joy
Because of the works of your hands
(Psalm 92:1-2, 4).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving. As you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this confession to the Lord:
Lord, God of my salvation,
I cry out before you day and night.  
May my prayer reach your presence;
Listen to my cry. For I have had enough troubles,
And my life is near Sheol (Psalm 88:1-3).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
I delight to do your will, my God,  
And your instruction is deep within me
(Psalm 40:8).

I have swept away your transgressions like a cloud,  
And your sins like a mist. Return to me,  
For I have redeemed you (Isaiah 44:22).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

• Greater insight into God´s Word
• The homeless in our country and around the world

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
Let the favor of the Lord our God be on us;
Establish for us the work of our hands —
Establish the work of our hands! (Psalm 90:17).