Forgive us.

"Open shame belongs to us, O Lord, to our kings, our princes and our fathers, because we have sinned against You. To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him; nor have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in His teachings which He set before us through His servants the prophets." Daniel 9:8–10

Spend an hour watching television or surfing the Internet and then read these verses from Daniel.  We live in a fallen world.  Look how far we have drifted away from the truth.  We have followed manmade idols and godless leaders who have led us farther away from our Savior.  If we are honest with ourselves, there are too many hours of each day where we are a part of this fallen world and not living for Jesus.  Father, forgive us, for being attracted to the pleasures of sin in this fallen world; to what appears to be full of ecstasy and satisfaction but is, in fact, empty, hollow and oozing with sin.  Thank You for bringing conviction, for pointing out our weakness and those times of rebellion.  We need that reminder countless times every day as we numbly smile at this world, so that we might invest ourselves in that which endures; Your Word. We want to pursue the things of God, the things You consider important and valuable; a righteous walk, a pure heart, a lifestyle committed to You.  We long to place family values above worldly fortune and purpose above fame and righteousness above riches.  Father, You instruct us and teach us in the way we should go; thank You for that.  You shine a bright light on our path that we may see Your Word.  Thank You for the relief that comes with being forgiven and the peace of mind that ultimately accompanies a clean heart.  Finally, thank You for Your mercies, new every morning, and Your grace, needed every day.  We thank You in the dear name of Jesus. Amen.