Studies on Prayer: Vol. 3Àpẹrẹ

Praying for Forgiveness

Every Christian needs to know how to approach God and find forgiveness. David had abused his authority as king to bring Bathsheba into his home. The consequences of that sinful choice included the death of the child who was created in sin and the death of a man who was Bathsheba’s faithful husband and David’s faithful soldier. Nathan was the prophet who confronted David with his sin, reminding him that he was accountable to God. David wrote Psalm 51 to describe his prayer as he placed his sins before God and found forgiveness and restoration.

1. Why can we approach God and ask for his forgiveness? (Psalm 51:1)

2. Read Romans 3:23. Why does everyone need God’s forgiveness? (Psalm 51:5–6)

3. Describe the life of the person who has received forgiveness. (Psalm 51:12)

4. What did David understand that enabled him to receive God’s forgiveness? (Psalm 51:15–17) How should that impact our prayers?

“God’s forgiveness extends to the worst offenders and to anyone who wishes to receive it – not because of who we are, but because of who He is.” —Charles Swindoll