The occasion for Psalm 51 is devastating. David’s murderous act to satisfy lustful intent is deplorable and devastating.  We can hardly conceive of a more egregious example of personal sin.  However, when confronted by the prophet Nathan, David’s sin came crashing down on him. God’s word laid bear his guilt and shame. How does a man respond to that level of exposure? There are various ways, but Psalm 51 represents the right one.

First, David allows his knowledge of God’s character to rule over the situation.  He appeals to his mercy (51:1a), unfailing love (51:1b) and compassion (51:2).  He recognises how offensive sin is before a holy God (51:4a) and admits the rightness of  God’s authority to judge (51:4b).  Where others would hide away, David comes before God.

Secondly, David takes ownership of his failings and acknowledges their corrupt nature. The transgressions are his and a stain on his soul (51:1, 3).  They are evil (51:3), and he longs for them to be purged from his being (51:1d, 2, 7, 9).

Thirdly, David is full of remorse. The weight of his sin crushes both his bones (51:8) and spirit (51:10, 17). Contrition overwhelms him (51:17).

Fourthly, David confesses a fundamental weakness in his being. His propensity to sin is ever-present (51:3), stitched into his very being from before birth (51:5).  He is impotent to save himself from sin’s power.  He needs God’s intervention.

Fifthly, David fears the consequence of sin.  He dreads being separated from God (51:11) and deprived of the Holy Spirit’s anointing influence (51:11).

Finally, given all the above, David pleads for God’s forgiveness, cleansing, restoration, renewal and deliverance (51:1, 2, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14).  No sacrifice he offers can pay for the sin he owns (51:17). David can’t do anything to redeem himself. But God can and will.

Remarkably, we have a God who meets our corruption and wicked propensities with the offer of mercy and cleansing. Though our spirits may be contrite, we can come before him with bold humility, confident that our confession will gain forgiveness.