Good Grief Part 5: Learning to Lament Your SinSýnishorn

CONFESSIONS OF THE HEART

Classic lament prayers begin with addressing God and then move into a time of expressing the pain, frustration, and fear of the moment. When the pain involves facing our own sin and its consequences, this time of expression will likely include confession as well.

While it’s easy to imagine that David was reflecting on the specific mistakes that he made, maybe even replaying them in his mind like many of us do every day, it is important to notice that his lament acknowledges his recent sin without excuse or justification and then shifts his focuses to something much bigger than the acts of disobedience themselves. He traces his sin back to its root – his sinful nature – and recognizes that his offenses are actually against God. This is an important shift to make as we lament our sin and its ripple effects in our lives. Repenting of the action tends to focus our attention on its situational consequences while repenting of the heart behind the act focuses our attention on restoring right relationship with God. David understood that acknowledging the act was necessary but that ultimate peace and healing would come through the restoration of the relationship.

Ask Yourself:

-How would you describe the difference between grieving the consequences of sin and mourning sin itself?

-How do you think David’s approach impacted his ability to process his pain?

Pause to Pray: Heavenly Father, I thank you for being a God who is present with His people; that you desire to be near me and active in my life. Today I acknowledge __________and invite you to show me your heart for this situation. Help me humbly receive your correction and take the steps you place before me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Living Lament: As you journal today, talk to God about how you process your mistakes and sinful attitudes. Honestly reflect on how you might be tempted to lament the situational consequences of sin rather than sin itself. Confess any wayward perspectives you may hold related to this.