Prisoners in Misery and Irons

Some sat in darkness and gloom, prisoners in misery and irons, for they had rebelled against the words of God, and spurned the counsel of the Most High. Psalm 207: 10-11 NRSV

A friend of mine was recently in a courtroom, waiting with a loved-one to go before a judge. While there, she saw so many people who were truly in chains. These were real prisoners but they made her think of all the people in that courtroom who were prisoners of sin. She could almost smell their misery and their living hells. She was moved to pray for them.

I guess we don't think of ourselves as bound to our sins. We don't see ourselves as prisoners to evil. But often we are in chains, in abject misery and darkness. The reason is because we have ceased to follow God or we have foolishly followed humans (including our own rebellious desires).

If you could name one sin that you are bound to right at this moment, what would it be?

Why do you feel bound to this sin?

God wants to free you from this sin. But you have to be willing to confess, admit your guilt, and accept God's forgiveness.

Are you willing and able to do so today?

God, I pray that you will break the chains that hold this person reading this devotional. May they accept your forgiveness and mercy. May we all be freed in the Holy name of Jesus. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims