All of us have made mistakes in life. Sin is a reality even for the believer in Jesus. What are we to do when we sin as disciples of Jesus?

Although this passage was written long before the birth of Christ, the process of addressing sin is beautifully described by king David in Ps. 51:1-4 which says,

“Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
and cleanse me from my sin!
For I know my transgressions,
and my sin is ever before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned
and done what is evil din your sight.”

Why is this passage so significant? Notice what the introduction to this Psalm says, “A PSALM OF DAVID, WHEN NATHAN THE PROPHET WENT TO HIM, AFTER HE HAD GONE IN TO BATHSHEBA.”

David did not just theoretically write about the topic of confession. This Psalm was a response to being confronted by his sin. He responded with a broken heart and admitted his sin and asked for mercy and God’s forgiveness.

Father, thank you for the real lives recorded in scripture. David was an imperfect man that responded well when confronted about his sin. Even in his failures he is a model to us. Help me to be as quick to confess my sin when I become aware of it so that I can enjoy my relationship with you as you designed it.

Following Jesus with you,

Jeff