Read:
- 2 Samuel 11
- 2 Samuel 12
- Psalm 51
Have you ever blown it big time? Have you tried to pass it off as nothing, but inside felt guilty and ashamed? When we sin, we often want to hide it—from others and from God—because we’re afraid of what would happen if anyone found out.
David sinned big time. He committed adultery—and then tried to cover it up with murder. But he couldn’t hide it from God. Just like the prophet Nathan confronted David, God often sends wise friends to point out our mistakes. Not to shame us, though. Not to grind us into the dirt, but to nudge us back on the right track with God.
God is merciful. Always. He is just, always. When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, he demonstrated both God’s mercy and his justice. The just punishment for sin is death, but God gave us mercy by sacrificing his Son on our behalf. How do we respond to that?
“The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.” (Psalm 51:17, NLT)
God wants your repentance—for us to turn around, away from our old habits and past mistakes—because he wants a relationship with you. If you have never taken this step to bring your heart to God, what’s holding you back? Like you read yesterday, God’s mercy is unlimited. There’s plenty for you.
Pray: God, you are merciful and just. I believe that Jesus died for my sins, and I want to live the rest of my life in relationship with you. Amen.