Our scripture today is Psalms 51:10 (NASB1995).
Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
David had sinned grievously and it was made plain to him through a visit from the prophet Nathan (2 Samuel 12). He went to God in repentance, asking to be made new. Notice he doesn’t say “I didn’t do it” or “I had a good reason”, he admits what he has done, accepting responsibility and consequences.
David asks for the kind of renewal only God can give – a clean heart and a steadfast spirit. He knows that as humans, even ones who have walked closely with God, there is nothing we can do to save ourselves. Only by going to Him in repentance can we be forgiven.
God is always ready to hear our cry of confession and restore us in His love. Paul tells us “nothing can separate us from the love of God” (Romans 8:39). We can be renewed and sent to share the mercy we have been given with the world.
Gracious God, we are grateful to receive Your forgiveness when we fail. Strengthen us in faith and use us to spread the Gospel everywhere. Amen.
