Encouraging Word
In Psalm 32, David addresses the joy and necessity of forgiveness. He covers seven parts or steps to forgiveness.
1. Consequences. He begins by pointing out the consequences (result, benefit) of forgiveness. He says happy is the person whose transgression is forgiven and where the penalty of sin is removed.
2. Conviction. Next, David mentions conviction. Conviction is the awareness of wrongdoing and experiencing the guilt for misconduct. Once he became aware of sin, then he had to acknowledge his sin.
3. Confession. Following conviction comes confession. To confess is to admit wrongdoing and to take ownership of it (1 John 1:9). Confession and repentance go together.
4. Communication. The next step referred to is communication with God. David says to pray. Prayer is conscious contact with God which involves both speaking and listening.
5. Counsel. As you talk and walk with God, you will receive counsel. As you stay “in touch” with God, His Holy Spirit will give you counsel. This guidance and teaching will come through reading and studying the Bible, the written Word of God.
6. Comfort. In seeking and receiving counsel, comfort will come to ease and relieve the pain that suffering from sin has caused.
7. Celebration. The last step to experiencing the joy of forgiveness is celebration. Once the burden and weight of sin have been removed through forgiveness, then celebration will come. David says to be glad in the Lord and rejoice.
As born-again believers and Christ followers, we know that forgiveness of sin only comes through the Lord Jesus Christ (I John 1:7). Salvation can only come as the sin barrier is removed. One has to repent of sin and believe the Gospel (Mark 1:15). Let me encourage you to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, have your sins forgiven, and experience the joy of forgiveness!
-Tony Cooper
Director Emeritus of Jimmie Hale Mission
