The joy of forgiveness, the agony of sin.

March 24, 2022 (Thursday)

 

In Psalm 32, David teaches the joy of forgiveness and the pain of not repenting. "Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered." [ESV Psalm 32:1] The word "blessed" (in English) means "happy or joyful." To me, happiness is dependent on circumstance, while joy continues despite circumstance.

 

The word "transgression" (in Hebrew) means to break loose or tear away from God (KD). It also means rebellion (BDB). Other ways to understand this concept are "disobedience" (NLT) and "wrongdoing" (CEB). The joy comes from being forgiven and having our sins covered. This covering is provided for us by the blood of Jesus. The act of repentance (changing our ways and our minds) is throwing ourselves on the mercy of God and fully depending on Jesus for our salvation.

 

The image of being "forgiven" can be described as "lifting." BDB also notes the act of bearing up, carrying, and taking away. The idea of covering is to make it invisible, "as though it had never taken place" (KD). David continues with the images, "Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity." [Psalm 32:2 ESV] "Iniquity" means perversity and depravity (BDB). While we may be inclined to think there is a part of this where our sin is ignored, it is not. The idea of "counts" means the sin is recognized. However, we are not treated in the way they deserve.

 

David continues by painting a picture of his emotional and physical state when he did not repent. “When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long. Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me. My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.” [Psalm 32:3 – 4 NLT] We see what it feels like to grow old. It reminds me of the commercial of a young lady purchasing a product. After she hands the money to the cashier, she is informed, "That is not enough." She then tears a piece of skin off her face and completes the sale.

 

I think we struggle against repentance. Paul noted this can go two ways: "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." [2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV] Repentance leads to salvation and life. Repentance sheds guilt and regret. Continuing under the crushing hand of guilt and regret-inducing sin is miserable. The danger here is that people will lash out. Generally, this will be directed at those who follow Jesus.

 

Life does not have to be unhealthy and painful. David found a solution, “So I admitted my sin to you; I didn’t conceal my guilt. “I’ll confess my sins to the Lord,” is what I said. Then you removed the guilt of my sin.” [Psalm 32:5 CEB] God does not ask much, yet what He does ask is close to impossible. Admitting to sin, can be the most humbling thing a person can do. Say it with me: “I was/am wrong.”

 

Not sure where to go from here? God promises: “I will instruct you and teach you about the direction you should go. I’ll advise you and keep my eye on you.” [Psalm 32:8 CEB] The choice is yours. But be real about your future expectations, “Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord.” [Psalm 32:10 ESV]