Psalm 51 is the great penitential psalm David wrote in the wake of that tragedy. But David wrote another psalm detailing the destructive consequences of living with unconfessed sin: Psalm 32. We don’t know if Psalm 32 was connected in any way with David’s failure. But whatever the occasion, Psalm 32 serves as a warning to those who have sinned: Don’t be like a stubborn animal who must be compelled to action (verse 9). Rather, let God’s mercy draw you to Him who is ready and willing to forgive: “I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,’ and You forgave the iniquity of my sin” (verse 5). Instead of living with guilt and shame, unburden your soul to God: “Rejoice…and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (verse 11) The beginning of repentance is the confession of guilt. John Calvin
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