Nehemiah 1:3-7

3They told me, “Those who survived captivity are in the province. They are enduring serious troubles and being insulted. The wall of Jerusalem has been broken down, and its gates have been destroyed by fire.”

4When I heard this, I sat down and cried. I mourned for days. I continued to fast and pray to the God of heaven.

5I said, “Lord God of heaven, great and awe-inspiring God, you faithfully keep your promise  and show mercy to those who love you and obey your commandments.

6Open your eyes, and pay close attention with your ears to what I, your servant, am praying. I am praying to you day and night about your servants the Israelites. I confess the sins that we Israelites have committed against you as well as the sins that my father’s family and I have committed.

7We have done you a great wrong. We haven’t obeyed the commandments, laws, or regulations that you gave us through your servant Moses.