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For we were slaves. Yet our God did not forsake us in our bondage; but He extended mercy to us. Ezra 9:9 NKJV

Freedom is possible only as we accept the truth about ourselves and the truth about God. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day did not see themselves as being in bondage to anyone or anything when they said, “We were never in bondage to any man.” (John 8:33) Little did they realize they were in bondage to their own mindsets, heart attitudes, and religious systems. They could not see it therefore they were in no position to admit it and seek freedom from the very One who could give it to them.

Ezra 9 is a chapter of corporate repentance. As priest, Ezra cried out to God on behalf of his nation because of their disobedience. But throughout his prayer the word WE is constantly used. He entered into the truth of his own heart. Yet as He came to God with the list of offenses He also proclaimed the truth about God. God was aware of their bondage and was not backing away. He was graciously extending mercy. He does the same for each of us today.

When we are blind to the areas in our life that hinder us from living in freedom and joy, we are unable to bring them out into the light in order that God would do a work in us. He is extending the mercy but we are unaware of our need of it. We are in no position to receive it or live by it. At that point it remains an unopened gift! Whether the bondage is a habit, a mindset, a sinful act, or something that has been passed down from past generations, God is urging us to acknowledge it and accept the mercy, grace, forgiveness, and help He extends.

This morning, God is drawing me into conversations with Himself. I am aware of the things I need to admit to Him. There are mindsets that are affecting my relationship with others. There are places in my life where I am allowing the enemy to feed me lies and color my perception. There are blind spots that God would have me open my eyes to. None of this is possible to admit if I view Him as anything but a welcoming God. He is ready to hear me and ready to give me the mercy I so desperately need. He has spent the past few years building a foundation of truth about Himself to me. When I read a verse like Ezra 9:9 I now recognize that characteristic as being who my God is and what my God is like.

Father, Your heart is what draws me to You. I hear and accept Your invitation to come to You and receive from You. Thank you! Amen.