Daniel 9:8
“O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against thee.”
The Devil is a master at creating confusion. He knows that “whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” (Romans 14:23) One of his major goals is to get God’s people to act in such a manner that creates confusion because when there is confusion there is uncertainty.
Daniel said in the verse above, “O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face…” Daniel looked at the result at what they had done, and he concluded that their actions created a confused society. There were several actions they performed that caused this “confusion of face.” We learn what these actions are by going back to verse 5.
First, sin causes “confusion of face.” One of the results of sin is it creates an uncertainty as to what is right. Many homes live in confusion because of the sin that is allowed. When children are told they can’t live a certain way or do certain things but see their parents committing sin, this creates “confusion of face.” It is no wonder that many homes have become a place of disharmony. Telling people not to do wrong is not good enough, you must also avoid sin. If you want to avoid a confusing atmosphere in your home, your life must agree with what you believe.
Furthermore, the society of a nation will become uncertain when sin is allowed, especially by her religious leaders. Many societies experience uprisings and tumults because sin has created “confusion of face.” You will never have a peaceful society until you remove sin from that society.
Second, departing from God’s commandments will create “confusion of face.” This is the result of sin. Many will simply leave what God commands so they can justify their sinful actions. I’m always amazed as to how so many who used to stand for truth have become antagonistic towards those who continue to uphold truth. The only reason one would change truth is because they are trying to justify their sin. Watch out for those who change definitions of sin or compromise. Their agenda is to justify their sin which creates “confusion of face.” The best response to sin is not to change truth, but to quit sin.
Third, refusing to positively respond to preaching will create “confusion of face.” The reason Daniel’s society had “confusion of face” was because they didn’t hearken unto the prophets who warned them of their sin. They attacked the messengers of God instead of hearing and doing what was prophesied. Attacking the messenger doesn’t change the message of God. You can go after those who proclaim truth, but you are only creating “confusion of face.” To know that someone is a man of God and refuse to obey what he preaches from God’s Word creates uncertainty in those around you. The result of this uncertainty is that people will do what they feel is right leading them towards God’s judgment.
Friend, sin and rebellion always create an uncertain atmosphere. Always remember that the Devil works best in uncertainty. God is a God of absolutes. Repentance of sin and heeding the preaching of God’s Word is the best way to remove the uncertainty in a home or society and creating a peaceful atmosphere.