Sweet Repentance

Sweet Repentance

“But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me” (Ps. 131:2). Being weaned means accepting “NO!” in life. This has to do with being content with what I have, with what you have given, not lusting after more. This has to do with resting in you, rejoicing in you, resolving to focus on you.
 
Help me to let go of the tinsel and bangles of life, and instead to hold onto the great truths of your Word: your mighty, unwarranted Love, your Holy nature, your Gracious heart, your Gifts of forgiveness, freedom and joy. You grant us an upward walk with you, sufficient security and significance, plenty of patience, protection, provision and power for life.
 
I praise you, Lord, for your wonderful character, your marvelous creativity, your great love of what is right, your endless supply of goodness.
 
Help me to rise above the petty things I have allowed to ensnare my soul and instead let you rule, let you reign in my thoughts, emotions, will and life.
 
I praise you for the privilege of lifting my soul to you, of having the Light of your Presence shine down into my mind, will and emotions, exposing sin, bringing me to repentance, cleansing evil, giving love and direction.
 
I praise you, Father, Son and Holy Spirit for your gracious work in my tiny, twisted, self-centered life.
 
“O Israel, put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore” (Ps. 131:3). What a great command! I have been subtly and unknowingly putting my hope in my own efforts, in my performing well, looking good, feeling good, being good. Forgive me, Lord, for this.
 
My hope must be only in you, my Lord and God, in your guidance and protection, your provision and presence. You are trustable, for you are wise, loving, patient, persistent, holy, righteous, just, merciful and gracious, ever giving with great abundance all that we need.
 
Prayer: “You, Lord God, are worthy of my worship in every matter, in every happening, in every thought, word and action. I praise you, I thank you, I lift up your name. May my life be a sweet fragrance of trust and truth before you today. Amen.”
–from the devotional book EDIFIED!