Desolate sanctuary

 https://youtu.be/_v3-H46we4k

Daniel 9: 4-19

 I was trying to pick just one verse to write down here from Daniels prayer, but I can't because it's all so good , and needs to be read, meditate on them,  and then let your heart cry out to God.

Wow,  It is not a coincidence that I stumbled upon this song after reading the prayer, the Desperate heart felt prayer of Daniel in chapter 9. If you have not read it, I urge you to read it and take it VERY personal as Daniel did. It would be a mistake to read this without deep personal feelings and repentance.

 Daniel was crying out to the Lord. He had a deep concern for his nation and his people. This is how our prayers should be. With true compassion for others. 

 All through this prayer David used the word "we."  It's so easy to blame others and excuse our own actions as christians.  But sadly, we look alot like the unsaved.  Daniel was a righteous man. Yet he confessed his sinfulness and need for God's forgiveness. Instead of looking for others to blame, ask the Holy Spirit to search and reveal the changes He is wanting from us personally. Then confess them to God. 

Daniel begged for mercy, not for help. He knew that his people deserved God's wrath and punishment. God sends his help not because we deserve it, but because he wants to show great mercy.  As christians, we have to stop settling for soothing messages, or making God into who we want Him to be.. Sometimes the truth hurts, and we would rather hear words that soothe. We can't continue to avoid making the painful changes that God's word calls us to do and be.  God has given all of us a choice. Obey him and receive blessings, or disobey him and face the consequences. If God would refuse to help us because of our sin, how could we complain? But when he sends mercy when we deserve punishment, how can we withhold our praise and Thanksgiving?

For Your glory Lord 

Kim D