SCRIPTURE: Psalm (NIV) 32:2 Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.
3 When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. 4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Selah
5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD”—and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
OBSERVATION: The weight of unconfessed sin is heavy. It hinders a person during the day like the heat of summer wears him down. It is difficult to peacefully sleep with a guilty conscience.
Oh, but the humble acknowledgement of sin—the acknowledgement that it is my sin, what a relief! The joy of forgiveness was always available, but my foolish pride often will not allow my confession.
APPLICATION: When I take the responsibility for my sin, Jesus takes the responsibility of removing the guilt! His sacrifice on the cross has more than enough value to cancel my guilt!
King David (in the Psalm above) was forgiven on the basis of what Jesus would do. I am forgiven on the basis of what Jesus has already done!
Later, after Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, the apostle John wrote, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1John 1:9)
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, you fully understand the evil nature of sin, even small sins. Yet your love for man led you to make the perfect sacrifice. Thank you for sending Jesus to die for my sins. Thank you, Jesus, for coming. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for opening my eyes to receive the forgiveness Jesus provided. Jesus, you are my Lord and Savior! You are my “sin-Bearer” and my “guilt-Remover!” Thank you! Amen
Pastor Leon
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