Our scripture this morning is Psalms 51:7-12.
Sprinkle me with water and I will be pure; wash me and I will be whiter than snow. Grant me the ultimate joy of being forgiven! May the bones you crushed rejoice! Hide your face from my sins! Wipe away all my guilt! Create for me a pure heart, O God! Renew a resolute spirit within me! Do not reject me! Do not take your Holy Spirit away from me! Let me again experience the joy of your deliverance! Sustain me by giving me the desire to obey!
This psalm from King David is a cry from the heart begging forgiveness. He had sinned against God and people for which God had given him responsibility. David had been selfish and deceitful in his choices and now he comes to God in repentance.
We know sin can’t be undone but God can forgive us if we are truly sorry. In the same way, when we forgive someone it doesn’t remove the sin, but it is the first step toward a mended relationship. Forgiveness isn’t forgetting, it is laying down the hurt that accompanies sin.
God is waiting to forgive us when we come to Him earnestly wanting to resume our connection. Jesus tells us “For if you forgive others their sins, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14). Let go of the pain you have received by forgiving those who caused it; ask forgiveness from others and God for pain you have caused. God comforts us, saying “I am the one who blots out your rebellious deeds for my sake; your sins I do not remember” (Isaiah 43:25).
Gracious God, we are sorry for our sins against You and one another. Forgive us we pray, and lead us in Your righteousness. Amen.
