READING: Psalm 32, 51, 86, 122
TEXTS AND ACCOUNTABILITY: Some of these psalms deal with cries for forgiveness, and they express both the agony of the burden of sin and the joy of forgiveness. Because God’s forgiveness is intense, confession — even when it’s hard — can be sweet. Carrying the burden of sin thus makes little sense, as God graciously and lovingly waits to forgive us.
1. The burden of sin can be severe.
Psalm 32:3-4 When I kept silent, my bones became brittle from my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy on me; my strength was drained
as in the summer’s heat.
as in the summer’s heat.
Psalm 51:3 For I am conscious of my rebellion, and my sin is always before me.
2. The joy of forgiveness is intense.
Psalm 32:1-2 How joyful is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How joyful is the man the Lord does not charge with sin and in whose spirit is no deceit!
Psalm 32:5 Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not conceal my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and You took away the guilt of my sin.
Psalm 51:7 Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Psalm 86:5 For You, Lord, are kind and ready to forgive, rich in faithful love to all who call on You.
PRAYER: Let’s pray that we would never harbor sin nor allow the guilt of sin to consume us before we seek God’s forgiveness. May confession be sweet today.
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Samuel 13-15