Old Testament

Readings from the Old Testament / Hebrew Scriptures

God desires us to confess our wrongdoing.

When you are guilty, you must confess the sin.
Leviticus 5.5

There is a positive outcome when we confess our wrongdoing to God.

“Yes, I have sinned,” Saul replied. “I disobeyed the LORD’s command and your instructions. I was afraid of my men and did what they wanted. But now I beg you, forgive my sin and go back with me, so that I can worship the LORD.”
1 Samuel 15.24,25

Apart from God, our hearts are wicked.

Sin speaks to the wicked deep in their hearts;
they reject God and do not have reverence for him.
Psalm 36.1

As a result of God’s forgiveness and mercy, we are urged to follow the teachings of God’s Law and obey them always.

How can young people keep their lives pure?
By obeying your commands.
With all my heart I try to serve you;
keep me from disobeying your commandments.
I keep your law in my heart,
so that I will not sin against you.
I praise you, O LORD; teach me your ways.
I will repeat aloud all the laws you have given.
I delight in following your commands
more than in having great wealth.
I study your instructions;
I examine your teachings.
I take pleasure in your laws;
your commands I will not forget.
Be good to me, your servant,
so that I may live and obey your teachings.
Open my eyes, so that I may see
the wonderful truths in your law.
I am here on earth for just a little while;
do not hide your commands from me.
My heart aches with longing;
I want to know your judgments at all times.
Psalm 119.9-20

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