Psalm 38-11.9.21
SCRIPTURE:
Psalm 38:17,18
"For I am about to fall, and my pain is constantly with me. So I confess my guilt; I am anxious because of my sin."
OBSERVATION:
David cried out to the Lord. He realized that he deserved God's punishment because of his sin, but he pleaded for God to have mercy on him. David confessed his iniquity. He attributed his suffering to his sin. David knew the God of judgement, but He also knew the God Who graciously forgives the sins of all those who confess their sins and turn from them.
UNDERSTANDING:
When we fail to acknowledge our sins, we shouldn't be surprised when we experience repercussions that can come in the form of anxiety, depression, physical ailments and feelings of guilt. Sin is not always the reason we suffer, but if we live with unconfessed sin, it's just a matter of time until we begin to feel the effects of it. It's very important for us to properly evaluate ourselves so that we can avoid God's discipline which comes after we stray off His intended path for us.
LIFE APPLICATION:
I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit, through Whom God acts to reveal His will and Who empowers me, and discloses His personal presence to me. I am also grateful for the way He convicts my heart, and helps me not to want to sin against God. I am also grateful to the spiritual leaders in my church who are there for me to go to when I need spiritual guidance and prayer.
How beneficial it is for us to stay in community and fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ, for companionship, prayer support, and accountability. How blessed we are to be able to reach out for prayer when we are hurting, troubled or sick, and how pleased God is to see that we are doing our part to support, comfort, and encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ when they are in need.
"Is anyone among you sick? He should call for the elders of the church, and they should pray over him after anointing him with olive oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will restore him to health; if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The urgent request of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect." ( James 5:14-16).
Thank You Lord for Your grace and for Your forgiveness, and for being there when we face troubles of any kind! You are there for us when we call out to You.
-Robin Orefice