Focus

Prepare yourself to discern what is and what is not of God today. Still yourself so you can hear how God is calling you.

---

Read

Psalm 32:1-7 (NRSV)

Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is covered.
Happy are those to whom the LORD imputes no iniquity,
and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

While I kept silence, my body wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah

Then I acknowledged my sin to you,
and I did not hide my iniquity;
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,”
and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
Therefore let all who are faithful
offer prayer to you;
at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters
shall not reach them.
You are a hiding place for me;
you preserve me from trouble;
you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah

---

Reflect

Have you ever said or done something wrong? You may have regretted it, but didn’t ask God’s forgiveness, or maybe not even the person you offended. Well, I have. I’ve learned through the years that if I am to have any peace and joy, I have to make things right with the person I offended, and with God. Sometimes it’s just something between me and God. If I don’t do this, it’s like a black cloud hanging over me, or a weight hanging on me. I have learned to apologize, and to ask God’s forgiveness.

David knew he had done wrong against Bathsheba, Uriah, and God. After David confessed his sin, God’s forgiveness allowed David to experienced great joy. God wants to forgive us! Maybe it’s because God loves us so much. God knows that if we carry around sin for a long time, it will just make us old before our time. What are you carrying around that is burdening your life and weighing on your heart? No matter what the sin was, ask for God’s forgiveness today! Then you can experience God’s peace and joy. It’s so worth it!

---

Pray

Dear God, we’re so thankful that you always forgive us if only we ask. Thank you for the joy that comes from our repentance. We praise you that even though our sins may have happened years ago, they are never too old or too big for your forgiveness. Give us the strength to examine ourselves and cleanse our hearts from anything that hinders our relationship with you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Go with God.