Deeper in WorshipSýnishorn

Day 8—Worship involves confession

Devotional
Repentance and forgiveness lie at the heart of the Gospel and are essential for salvation in Jesus Christ. Who amongst us could claim to be without sin (1 John 1:8 NIV) when we know that we so often fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23 NIV)? Mercifully, the Bible is clear that, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NIV), which should surely stir our hearts to worship! David penned Psalm 51 after Nathan the prophet challenged him about his adultery with Bathsheba and the cover-up murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 11 & 12 NIV). It is a Psalm of repentance where David cried out to God for mercy (Psalm 51:1 NIV) and cleansing from all his sin (Psalm 51:2 NIV). David’s honesty is notable as he confesses his transgressions before the Lord (Psalm 51:3-5 NIV), acknowledging that nothing can be hidden from Him (Psalm 51:6 NIV). How wonderful that you can be completely transparent with God, knowing that the outcome of your repentance will be forgiveness rather than wrath! David later pleads for cleansing (Psalm 51:7 NIV), for his joy to be restored (Psalm 51:8 NIV), and that God might hide his face from all his iniquities (Psalm 51:9 NIV). Repentance is more than just remorse; it’s a declaration of turning away from sin in order to live a life of worship to the Lord.

Prayer
Jesus, I acknowledge that I have done wrong things and that my sin has separated me from You. Today I ask for Your forgiveness and thank You for Your gift of new life, Amen.

Application
Spend some time in honest prayer confessing your sins to the Lord. Then, sitting in silence, raise your hands to the Lord in a physical representation of receiving His forgiveness, and thank Him for His goodness.

Siân Rees