Everyone does wrong. Many are burdened with guilt because of it. Nothing could give more release than being forgiven. Paul referred to words that say it best when he quoted from Psalm 32. “[J]ust as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works: ‘Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, And whose sins are covered; Blessed is the man to whom the Lord shall not impute sin’” (Romans 4:6-8).
King David knew when God forgives he lifts and takes away sin (Psalm 32:1a). No wonder James said, “Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20). God does not charge that individual with sin because it is regarded as discharged (Psalm 32:2).
Remaining silent when one knows sin is in his life results in destruction (Psalm 32:3). The word “groaning” describes a roar and loud groans of anguish over one’s unforgiven sin. The heat of the anxiety suffered in the conscience burns up and dries, as David declared (Psalm 32:4). In fact, “Many sorrows shall be to the wicked” (Psalm 32:10a; Matthew 25:30).
The one who acknowledges sin will be forgiven by God (Psalm 32:5). Peter told the crowd gathered around the lame man made whole, “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord” (Acts 3:19). John said much the same to his children in the faith (1 John 1:8-9).
The forgiven individual should rejoice, singing “songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7). God promised, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye” (Psalm 32:8). The forgiven one will, in turn, be compelled to tell others, as David promised (Psalm 51:12-13). The one who through confession places his trust in God receives the blessing of being surrounded by God’s mercy and rejoices in a heart made right by the Almighty (Psalm 32:10b-11)!
Gary Hampton