Thurs., 5/7/20 Devotion (Ps. 51:1b-2)

Today's encouragement comes from Psalm 51:1b & 2, where we read these words:

"Blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin."

What a great prayer (above, by David). After all, if our sins are forgiven, and if we know (and even sense) this—can there be any greater blessing? Jesus died for sinners. He did not die for “good" people, who only look for iniquity in others, but conveniently excuse themselves. If we know ourselves—in
Adam—to be hopelessly lost sinners, who are only saved by grace through faith in Christ (plus nothing)—then we are supremely happy and blessed.

What are we to do when we feel the guilt of our sins? Bring the issue to God. If we believe in Jesus' atonement, then let us leave our sin there (at the cross). If we do not believe in Jesus' atonement, then we are condemned, and must bear our own sin's punishment (in perdition).

[Puritan quote of the day: "The church of Christ is a common hospital, where-in all are in some measure sick of some spiritual disease or other . . . “
—Richard Sibbes, in, "The Bruised Reed"]