I just finished reading Jeremiah 8 in my quiet time and am wondering: in the midst of our economic crisis, I’m hearing next to nothing from the Church about repentance on our behalf for our sins and for those of the nation as well.
A careful reading of the OT Prophets makes it quite clear that when God is displeased with a nation and seeks to discipline or judge it (so that it will repent and do what is right in His sight), He begins with their economy.
Clearly, He is dealing with us in this regard, yet I hear very little from Christians — especially leaders — calling us to repentance.
I am doing this now: let us repent for all of the sins that the Holy Spirit reveals to us — both as individuals, as a Church and as a nation.
And let us continually cry out to Him to change the hearts of people in our country from top to bottom, bending such hearts to do what is pleasing in His sight — lest things quickly become worse!
A careful reading of Jer. 8 make it abundantly clear that God prefers to give the nation grace — not judgment (as is always the case with Him). But the call to repent of sinful ways goes out as the necessary condition for forgiveness and restoration.
Father, we do ask You to forgive all of us of our sins against You and against one another.
We have not taken You and Your Word seriously; we are too preoccupied with what concerns us and not with what concerns You.
We have become too worldly and we have lost Your heart. Turn the hearts of Your people and those who do not yet know You in our country to hate sin and love righteousness.
Bring a sense of shame to us again and bring it openly. Turn hard hearts away from sin and back to You and come and restore us and heal our land, our economy, our relationships and let us become once again a nation that can truly say, “In God We Trust,” in Jesus’ name, amen.
Dear Brad,
Thank you for your prayers of repentence for our nation and all of us in this country. I met you when you worked at CBN. I have sent a small check to you. God has put you on my heart. We will try to send some support more frequently. I think many Christians are caught up in the world. I pray God bless and use you and that others provide support so you can do work for our Beloved Savior. Thank you for all you do in His Name: He is watching you and will Bless you mightily.
God Bless, Your sister in Christ,
Linda Mohr
Hi Linda,
Wow, what a very pleasant surprise! And timely, as well; I was laid off at Bethany, due to major financial shortfall.
I’m currently looking for employment, preferably in the pastorate. So, your words and your kindness are very much appreciated!
It’s quite a trial, especially because my year at Bethany was probably the most fruitful of my ministry (CBN was as well, but in different ways).
Thank you very much!
Brad