This is a deep cry for mercy. We are not told the source of the anguish. It does seem to be that the nation was under some punishment for their sins. While he prayed for relief, the psalmist processed thoughts with which we all can identify.
1. Their condition. (v.3)
As he prayed, immediately the feelings of guilt and unworthiness surfaced. God keeps records of every sinful thought, word and deed. Revelation 20:12 shows The Judge in heaven opening the books and holding each person accountable for every unforgiven violation. Who can possibly stand under such judgment? The answer is no one. We are helpless to help ourselves.
2. God's character. (vv.4, 7-8)
The good news unfolds for us in that little phrase "But with you..." The help we so desperately need comes from the intervention of God and His grace. Gratefully, He offers what we cannot provide.
*Forgiveness. The only basis for the forgiveness of any sin is the once and for all, sinless sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The blood sacrifices under the Old Testament only covered the sin until the time the Messiah would take away it away (John 1:29). When a person confesses their sin to Jesus, He forgives, removes, and cleans the account against us.
*Hope. People lose hope when they see no way out of their crisis. Once forgiven, our relationship with the LORD is restored and we have all the power of God at work on our behalf. Our focus of the future then is not on our circumstances but on the plan and purposes God has for our lives.
3. Their consequence. (vv. 5-6)
Sin may be forgiven, but the consequences remain. With every sin there is a loss of some kind--in a relationship, an opportunity, a reward, or a punishment. Though forgiveness is available, not everyone comes to God for His mercy. This is a part of the psalmist's call to the nation. Even with forgiveness, the resolve of the consequence we may suffer takes time. Waiting for the LORD's timing to resolve our circumstances is a test of our trust in Him.
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