For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight. (Psalm 51:3-4)
As shared previously, I am of the view that the failure to acknowledge our sin is the greater issue seeing that forgiveness of sin is available to us through repentance. Obviously for that to occur, we must be willing to own up to it our sins which, it seems to me, many people are unable or unwilling to do. Our collective failure to take responsibility for our misdeeds is an extremely unattractive characteristic, and one that God does not abide. It is common in our nature to deflect what we are responsible for onto someone else — i.e. it’s always someone else’s fault.
This trait first surfaced in the beginning when God confronted Adam about eating the forbidden fruit. Adam’s reply was “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate” (Genesis 3:12). Translation: It’s her fault. When God asked Cain about his brother’s whereabouts, he lied and feigned ignorance saying, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9). In both cases, God gave each man an opportunity to take responsibility and confess their sin but both attempted to pass the buck. It’s no different, today, unfortunately. Nevertheless, God sees all and knows all.
When we are willing to realize that our sins are committed against our Creator, the door is opened to feel the appropriate remorse and shame. In turn, we are compelled to see the need for repentance and are motivated to acknowledge our failure. I would add that sincere remorse means not only owning up to our sin but to endeavor never to repeat it. David said, “My sin is always before me,” perhaps implying that the regret and the sting of consequences would forever serve as a reminder to never repeat the sin. I know what it’s like to be filled with constant anxiety and grief over something I should not have done — and I have never forgotten it. But like David, and I’m sure you as well, I am familiar with the peace and comfort that comes with knowing the Lord is faithful to forgive me of my sin when I am honest enough to confess it to Him.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
Recent Comments