Psalms 51:1-19

REPENTANCE AND RESTORATION

 

Keywords 51:10

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

 

1. David was filled with regret after Nathan confronted him about his sin of

adultery and murder (1 Sa 12). David’s heinous sins could not be reversed or

taken away by any human action. Sin is more than an immoral act committed in

a moment in time. As David confessed, sin is deep in our human nature, present

even at conception (5). Though we are born with sin, we cannot excuse ourselves

from sin. God still desires faithfulness to him from us (6).

 

2. To whom do you turn when you are made aware of your sin? David cried out to

God for his mercy. He depended on God’s unchanging character – his unfailing

love, his great compassion, and his desire to cleanse us from sin. Only God

could wash David, make him whiter than snow, and deliver him from his guilt of

bloodshed. God made cleansing from sin available to everyone through Jesus

Christ. Turn to Jesus in repentance and he will cleanse you from your sins.

 

3. David also asked God to create in him a pure heart and for the Holy Spirit. He

longed for God’s presence. He prayed for a restored relationship with God. Then

he would sing praise to God and teach others to also turn back to God.

 

Prayer Father, I am a sinner, but I praise you for forgiveness of sins and

restoration in Jesus. Create in me a pure heart and restore the joy of your

salvation. Help me to lead others to Jesus.

 

One Word Create in me a pure heart