Do you know the joy of forgiveness? Take a look at this week’s psalm, Psalm 32.

Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. (verses 1-2, ESV) 

Do you feel blessed? What do you consider as a blessing?

For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. (verses 3-5, ESV)

Guilt and attempts at self-justification can be stifling. A sense of peace and freedom come from confessing and being forgiven.

Therefore let everyone who is godly offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found; surely in the rush of great waters, they shall not reach him. You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. (verses 6-7 ESV)

It doesn’t help to run away from God. It is running to Him that provides relief.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you. (verses 8-9 ESV)

God is very willing to help us. It is us that struggles to accept His leading.

Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart! (verses 10-11 ESV)

Those left in their sin have no reason for joy, but those that know God’s love and forgiveness have reason to celebrate.