Devotion:
Read Psalm 51:1-12.
Verses 1-10 of this passage comprised one of our Scripture readings on Ash Wednesday, the day on which I am writing this devotional. Isn’t it interesting how things like this happen? It was fitting for that day, but it is always a powerful lesson for any day. The psalmist, likely David, is aware of his past sins. David had committed adultery with Bathsheba, plotted to cover his sin, and had her husband (a faithful soldier of David’s) killed in battle when the coverup did not work. Confronted by his court prophet, Nathan, David now realizes his sin and feels dirty and separated from God. The lust is gone, along with the arrogance of power. David wants desperately to be cleansed.
Sin separates us from God; and when we face our sin, we want to be free from guilt and reunited with God. We desire, as did David, to be washed and clean. David prays that he will be given a pure heart and a steadfast spirit. These two are essential if we are to refrain from sinning again. When we truly repent of our sin, we first wish to be forgiven. Then we want to live with a pure and new spirit, never again repeating our offense.
Personal Worship Option:
Reflect on old ways you have put aside as a Christian. What new ways have you adopted? Are there things you are still working on to learn to live the way of Christ? The answer to that should be a resounding “yes” for most of us. Pray for God’s direction as you grow and change.
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