Psalm 51:3–4: For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight— That You may be found just when You speak, and blameless when You judge.
Experiencing Jesus in the Psalms
When he said that his sin was constantly before him, it must be remembered that his confession came about a year after he had sinned (the young child died a week after the confession). Perhaps David had so rationalized his actions that he did not sense his guilt until Nathan approached him. At any rate, he confessed that he had sinned against the Lord. And he submitted to the Lord’s will, acknowledging that anything God decided about him would be just. 1
Living the Transformed Life
I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.” ’ Luke 15:18–19
- Are you convinced that your sin is offensive before God?
- Are you convicted that your sin requires sincere repentance before God?
- Are you coming before God to make a humble confession of sin, and a complete surrender to accept the consequences?
To admit that you have sinned before a holy God, is to admit that your unholy soul needs His cleansing.
Praise and Prayer
Thank You, Father, for responding to my confession with Your mercy. Dear Jesus, please lead me away from temptation, and fill me with Your Spirit
1. Ross, A. P. (1985). Psalms. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 1, p. 832). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.