A New Beginning
May 26, 2010
“The children of Israel were assembled with fasting, in sackcloth, and with dust on their heads… and they stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers” (Nehemiah 9:1b-2B).
Why do children of alcoholics often repeat their parent’s behavior? Why does abuse in one family often carry into the next generation? The Bible teaches here that we can repent, not only for our sins, but for the sins of the previous generation. In Christ there is always hope for a clean slate and a new beginning.
Today as we fast and pray let’s approach the Lord with confidence that He is greater that our ancestor’s addictions, abuse, or repeated sin. Let us pray.
Let's pray for ourselves.
Dear Lord,
It’s only by Your grace that I am not a slave to the sins of my ancestors. I thank You that in Romans 6, Your word says, “Sin shall not have dominion over me.” Again, I yield all of my fleshly temptations to You, and I acknowledge that by Your strength, I can live a new life.
Let's pray for our city and country.
Dear Lord,
We pray for those who are caught in sinful addictions that have been modeled to them by their parents. We ask for Your forgiveness for the sins of our fathers. As You have prospered us, we have forgotten You. Please forgive us and restore the fear of the Lord in our country again.
Let's pray for the global advance of the gospel.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for your blessings on Oasis World Ministries during our recent trip to India where we saw over 7,000 Hindus humble their hearts before the One True God, Jesus Christ. Thank You for protecting the Oasis team from the cyclone. We pray for the families who have lost homes and lives during this recent storm. We ask for Your mercy on the country of India. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.