Psalms 32:1-2, 5 1Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 2Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.
5 Then I confessed my wrongdoing to you and refused to cover it up. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and you forgave me for my wrongdoing. Selah.
The Old Testament had laws that governed the rituals of dealing with sin. The mandated sacrifices and offerings represented Christ, who would become the sacrifice for us. Though the Israelites obeyed the instructions, some of them understood that the blood of bulls and goats could not wash away sin. They recognized the significance of the sacrifice, but they also understood that it had little effect on them.
In this psalm, David describes the blessing that awaits the man whose sins are forgiven. Guilt is a heavy load. As he remained mute, attempting to conceal his sin, he stated that he felt God’s heavy grasp on him, making his bones feel old. Quite a description of guilt! How did David get relief? He broke his silence.
In the New Testament, we are instructed to confess our mistakes to one another in order to pray for one another (James 5:16). Our old inclination instructs us to be silent, but this only makes matters worse. Once it’s out in the open, we can deal with it and truly abandon it. As long as we hide it, we contemplate the possibility of continuing in that awful pattern. However, when we realize it is destroying us and must be abandoned, we confess. Then we can ask for forgiveness and discover the beautiful blessing David spoke of. Is there a secret sin you’re concealing in the dark? Hold it up and study it in the light of the cross, which demonstrates God’s love for you. Consider whether that sin is worth as much as His love. Bring everything out into the open, confess it to God, and, if necessary, confide in a mature saint.
Remember that sin loses its potency when exposed to light.
Prayer: Lord, I give You my worries and my weariness today. When the road feels too steep and my strength is small, please carry me. Give me the wisdom to handle each challenge and the peace to trust that You are with me in every struggle. Amen.
