Reading of the Law of God
Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that
he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the
wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise
in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that
they are futile.” 1 Corinthians 3.18-20
Confession of Sin
Our Father, we confess that we fall into the trap of
thinking of ourselves as wise in this age. It is a goal that has been placed
before us, and we have pursued it. In this we have ignored what You have said about
the futility of the wisdom of this world. We have sinned against You. We humbly
ask for Your forgiveness of our sin. We also ask that You would enable us to
gain true wisdom even if it means looking foolish in the eyes of others. We are
bold to ask this only because of Jesus, our wise Savior. Amen.
Declaration of Pardon
Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose
sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the LORD counts no iniquity, and
in whose spirit there is no deceit. I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not
cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and
you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Psalm 32.1-2,5