Prayer 23 of 35 · Psalm 130:1–8 · Psalm 51:1–12
For Forgiveness of Sins
Psalm 130 says the thing that separates Christian repentance from religious guilt: 'If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, THAT THOU MAYEST BE FEARED.' Forgiveness produces reverence, not punishment. Psalm 51 then asks for what pardon alone does not restore: the joy.
Out of the depths have I cried unto You, O LORD. If You should mark iniquities, I could not stand — but there is forgiveness with You, and that is why I fear You and why I come. Have mercy upon me according to Your lovingkindness; blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly, and cleanse me. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Your presence. Restore unto me the joy of Your salvation — for the guilt has gone but the joy has not returned, and I need both. My soul waits for You more than they that watch for the morning. In the name of Jesus Christ, who bore this already. Amen.
- I declare there is forgiveness with God, and it is complete.
- I declare I am washed, cleansed, and made new by the blood of Jesus.
- I declare the joy of my salvation is restored to me.
Whenever conviction comes. Once is enough — do not repeat it out of guilt.
forgivenesssinrepentanceguiltcleansingjoy