Psalm 32: An Honest Relationship

On this first Sunday of Lent, we're reminded by the psalm of the day that God wants us to make things right with him and the world.  Indeed, God not only wants this, God longs for this.  But to do so, we need to be honest.  With God, and with ourselves.  Penitence, which involves reflection, acknowledgment, and action, isn't always easy.  It's not meant to be.  But it can change our lives.  Read David's words, think about the joy, the relief, the peace he expresses.  And then know that these are all available to you and me.  All we need to do is be honest.

Of David. A Maskil.
1 Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven,
   whose sin is covered.
2 Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity,
   and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

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

5 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

6 Therefore let all who are faithful
   offer prayer to you;
at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters
   shall not reach them.
7 You are a hiding-place for me;
   you preserve me from trouble;
   you surround me with glad cries of deliverance.
          Selah

8 I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go;
   I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
9 Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding,
   whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle,
   else it will not stay near you.

10 Many are the torments of the wicked,
   but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
11 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous,
   and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.

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