“And
because of all this we make a sure covenant.” (v.38)
Through our study of Nehemiah we have seen the wall completed, Jerusalem
rebuilt, the Law expounded, and the Feast of Tabernacles observed. Now we come
to the great Day of Humiliation.
Here the people separated themselves entirely from all those who
were not of the sons of Israel, and then gave themselves to confession before
God of their sins and iniquities of their fathers (vv.1-4). The remainder of
the chapter is largely occupied with a great corporate prayer offered by the
Levites praising God for His deliverance, His guidance, His grace, His goodness
and help, in the form of a new covenant (vv.5-38).
Like the children of Israel, we too have ignored God’s goodness in our lives,
and have turned away to follow our own path. However, we can also (like the
children of Israel) return to Him and repent. For God is ready to pardon,
gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in kindness. When we humbly abandon our rebellious ways and recommit
ourselves to God’s ways, He will show compassion and welcome us back to
closeness with Him.
There is an old saying, "confession opens the door to thanksgiving." Why not do just that today and make a new
covenant with God. You'll have plenty to be thankful for this Thanksgiving and will someday then be seated at His table.
The Truth
“If we confess our sins,
He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from
all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
