Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

David was forgiven when he confessed his sin to the Lord, who surrounds those who trust Him with unfailing love and gives them songs of deliverance.

What does it mean?

This psalm describes David “before” and “after” he confessed his sin of adultery with Bathsheba. He tried to cover it up, but He could not hide his sin from God. The guilt of his wrongdoing was heavy, and the conviction of God’s Spirit was strong. Once he decided to confess his sin to the Lord, it was like a weight was lifted from his chest. Fellowship with his Lord was immediately restored. David’s gladness returned, and he could again enjoy God’s guidance and counsel. The Lord put a song of praise back into the psalmist's heart. David had reason to sing God’s praise indeed.

How should I respond?

If you are a child of God, He will not allow you to live comfortably with known sin in your heart and life. You can try to ignore it, hide it, or lie about it, but the truth is laid bare before God. He will discipline you to make you a reflection of His holiness and righteousness (Hebrews 12:5-11). What sin is sapping your joy and effectiveness for the kingdom of God? You may consider it a much smaller issue than David’s sin of adultery. Still, any sin that you allow to linger will drain you spiritually – it may even affect you physically. Allow the conviction of the Holy Spirit to soften your heart right now and confess any wrong thought, attitude, or action weighing you down.