In Psalm 32 David describes his feelings between the time of his sin and the moment of confession and forgiveness. He knew he had sinned. What he had done had displeased the Lord, but the Lord did not forsake him. David said, "Day and night your hand was heavy upon me, my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer." He knew what we call "deep conviction" in his soul day and night. How did the Lord deal with David? Nathan the prophet came with a parable which caught David's attention. Then when something more was needed, Nathan gave the direct blunt words identifying David as the sinner, "You are the man." Nathan pointed out what David had done (v.9). He had despised God's Word. He had killed Uriah and he had stolen his wife. The power of the Holy Spirit through Nathan broke through David's deceit and cover up. David's confession is in Psalm 51. "Against you, you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight." He pleaded for mercy and found it in the grace of God. Nathan's reply to David's confession is remarkable. Notice it in the same verse (v.13). "The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die." God had already forgiven him but God wanted his confession so that fellowship could be restored. There are times when sin has to be brought out in the open before victory can be gained and fellowship renewed. Public confession is sometimes needed but usually confession should only be made within the circle where sin has been committed. Is there any limit to God's forgiveness? Not when there is genuine repentance and confession. The only sin God cannot and will not forgive is continual unbelief. A VERSE FOR TODAY: "The blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin." (1 John 1:7) |
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