The Way Back

ENGLISH

Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. — Psalm 51:4

This is one of the most well-known moments of repentance in the entire Bible. And this confession is quite breathtaking in the shadow of the sin. This is King David coming clean with God about his adultery with Bethsheba, his plot to conceal it, and the premeditated murder of Uriah, Bathsheba's husband.

I have read this one line maybe a thousand times in my life. And what I love about it is how David emphasizes that he has only sinned against God. And this is true. This was not a sin against Bethsheba, Uriah, his family, or the nation — it was a sin against God alone. And why? Because God is the creator of mankind, and only he is holy. This means it is only against him can any man sin. Thus when we chose to disobey God, we sin only against Him.

But, let's agree that all sin against God also causes suffering for others in this life. This is just another reason God prohibits it. And this sin in David's life was not merely one, but many. It was one sin that led to another and another. And these sins had consequences in his family, friendships, leadership, and future.

So here is what I have learned from King David — great men are repentant men. They are willing to humble themselves before the Lord and confess their sin wholeheartedly. They understand that their acts of disobedience are only and always a grievance against God and result in the separation of a relationship with Him. They are willing to confess and turn back in repentance to God, seeking his forgiveness. And God is willing to extend it graciously to those who come. And yet, there is always some hard work we must do relationally with those we hurt — family, friends, coworkers, and spouses.

Maybe today you need to make your way back? Know this — God will accept you and forgive you.

It says this in 1 John 1:9:

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

ASK THIS: Are you ready to be forgiven and in right standing with God? (Write the word "yes" in the comments below, and I will pray for you today).

DO THIS: Confess your sins to Him and turn back.

PRAY THIS: God, I confess these sins _______________ to you today. I turn from my ways. I want your forgiveness. Make me in right standing with you. I believe this is possible in the life, death of Jesus, which pays the penalty for my sin. I also believe you will give me spiritual resurrection life like you gave your son when you raised him from the dead. Today I pledge to live life as your subject and servant. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Path of Sorrow.

SPANISH
FRENCH
AFRIKAANS
DUTCH
CHINESE

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129 thoughts on “The Way Back

  1. Brian says:

    Yes
    Godplease forgive my adultery forgive my critical attitude and selfish way. I need Your restoration for me and my family.

  2. Larry Froberg says:

    I’m troubled by the phrase you use in your suggested prayer: “I also believe you will give me spiritual resurrection life like you gave your son when you raised him from the dead.” It is my belief that our resurrection will be a physical one. More importantly, when God raised Jesus from the dead, it was a physical resurrection.

  3. Roy Barnett says:

    Great devotional. I have never heard that verse before. It has alot of meaning and power behind it. I feel that many people might misinterpret? Thank you for providing a means for spiritual minded people to gather and discuss how god has changed our lives. Roy Barnett-Jones Covey Group

        • Vince Miller says:

          Starting a study on Job. Pray for a clear outline and that God would give me wisdom for communicating his truth from this book clearly to men! 👊🏼👊🏼👊🏼

          • Steve says:

            You got it, you’ve been prayed for! Lord, I ask that you give Vince new, fresh and deeper insights into his study of Job. Holy Spirit, grant Vince understanding of Job in a way that transcends every divide. I pray that you will use Vince to teach and illustrate practical applications from his study in Job. In JESUS name I pray, AMEN!

  4. Jeffrey says:

    YES!!! I am God’s servant yesterday, today and forever. He had forgiven me for my sins! Grace!

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