The Forgiveness of God
Psalm 51 has been helping people understand God’s grace and forgiveness of sin for over 3000 years. In this psalm David teaches us about God’s ways: His holiness, judgment, forgiveness of sins, and his grace (51:13). We learn that those who have had their consciences wounded with the seriousness of sin cannot rest until they have obtained assurance of His mercy and grace.
David understands the seriousness of his sin against God (51:1-4). Inspired by his reverence for the Lord, David asks God for cleansing from his sin (forgiveness)(51:7; 1 John 1:9). He has become defiled with his sin and needs to be forgiven to be able to fellowship once again with the Lord. Brethren, forgiveness of sins brings a cleansed conscience and a restoration of close fellowship with God. Peace and joy return to the daily life of the believer. Knowing that God has forgiven us of our sins brings “joy,” “gladness,” and “rejoicing” to our wounded hearts (51:8; Eph 1:7).
David also petitions the Lord for restoration (51:10-13). Forgiveness and reconciliation are linked together. God forgives so we would be reconciled. David desires to have a steadfast heart in his reconciled state with God (51:10). He also asks for mercy, so that he would not be set aside from service or usefulness because of his sin (51:11,14). A right relationship with the Lord, free from the guilt of sin, produces joy and a willingness to worship (51:12; Rom 8:1). God’s forgiveness brings praise from His people (51:15).
Brethren, when we take our sins lightly, and cover them, we provoke God to discipline us with severity. If we desire forgiveness, then we must do more than confess our guilt in words; we must repent and take rigorous actions against the very root of idolatry in our hearts.