“He grieves truly who weeps without a witness.” –George Swinnock
After his baptism and the temptation in the wilderness, Jesus began to preach and the first word of his message was “Repent.” (Matt. 4:17) Repentance is important because it prepares the way for God’s kingdom and at the same time signals its arrival. In this psalm, David uncovers three marks of genuine repentance.
The first mark of genuine repentance is characterized by the person being distraught over past sin, lamenting its occurrence, and despising its existence. David cried, “Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways.” And again, “For the sake of your name, O Lord, forgive my iniquity, though it is great.” (v. 7, 11) The weight of sin has bent the back of David and threatens to break him were it not for God’s mercy.
The second mark of genuine repentance is characterized by the person of Christ being sought after for mercy and relief. David’s jaundiced eye gazes toward Christ and he confessed, “My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only he will release my feet from the snare.” (v. 15) David’s sick soul turns to the Great Physician and pleaded, “Look upon my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins.” (v. 18) This turning to Christ for deliverance greatly pleases God who by forgiving men succeeds in bringing glory to himself. As Jonathan Edwards noted, “It is the honor of Christ to save the greatest sinners, when they come to him, as it is the honor of a physician that he cures the most desperate diseases or wounds.” (Treasury of David, 407) For this purpose was the life of Christ lived and the blood of Christ shed that sinners who come to him might be forgiven.
The third and final mark of genuine repentance is the individual’s desire to avoid all future sin and to be taught by God. Thomas Goodwin explained, “There cannot be a true sorrow of heart for sin that is past, but presently there does arise a purpose not to sin for the future.” (Puritan Golden Treasury, 237) David turns from his sin and to Christ and finds consolation in this, that God “…instructs sinners in his ways.” (v. 8) Today take a moment to check the condition of your heart and look to God for instruction. Have a blessed week and we will see you Sunday.
Love in Christ,
Pastor Dale