Back to Grace
The ultimate ascent is from sinful depression to forgiven exaltation.
Main Points
Petition (verses 1-2)
A petition is a request given with a begging and needy heart. This is the attitude we will have when we realize our personal sinfulness before the Holy and Pure Judge. We need to be aware of how desperate we are.When we find ourselves in the abyss of personal sin, we cry out to God because He is our only hope of receiving help.
Confession (verses 3-4)
The psalmist personally and reverentially confesses his sinful state. If God were to carefully note each of our sins, no one would be able to stand in innocence or bear the sentence.But God longs to forgive! He offers it freely, but we must receive forgiveness on His terms. God’s forgiveness is inclusive – it has no limits. It is present right now for those who want it. The forgiveness of God is transformational – it leads to godly living.
Expression (verses 5-6)
Whoever asks for forgiveness will receive it. In response, the psalmist now longs for the Lord’s appearing and puts his hope in God’s Word.
Exhortation (verses 7-8)
Those who have been forgiven by God want to be a light to their community. God’s character is always forgiving, and He is capable to forgive even the sins of a whole nation.
Application Points
This psalm reminds us of our greatest need and how it can be ultimately met. Where do you find yourself in these verses?
Have you ever made your own ascent from sinful depression to forgiven exaltation? Have you realized the great distance that sin places between yourself and God? Have you called out to Him for mercy?
Has God’s forgiveness transformed your life? Forgiveness gives us peace with God in this world, and a reverential awe of God replaces the fear that leaves us terrified. Are you developing the wisdom that knows and applies God’s Word? How do you show that you love, worship, and serve God?
Do you respond to God’s grace as the psalmist did – longing to see the Lord at His return and hoping in His Word? How can you be living faithfully and doing the job He’s appointed for you in the meantime?
Tools for Further Study
Cross References to Explore:
- Romans 3:23 – sin makes humans utterly lost.
- Exodus 34:6-7 – God’s character is always forgiving.
- Proverbs 9:10 – the fear of God.
- 1 John 2:2 – God loves the whole world.
A Hymn to Encourage: “Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness”
Jesus, Thy blood and righteousness
My beauty are, my glorious dress;
Midst flaming worlds, in these arrayed,
With joy shall I lift up my head.
Bold shall I stand in that great Day,
For who aught to my charge shall lay?
Fully through these absolved I am
From sin and fear, from guilt and shame.
Lord, I believe Thy precious blood,
Which at the mercy-seat of God
Forever doth for sinners plead,
For me–even for my soul–was shed.
When from the dust of death I rise
To claim my mansion in the skies,
Even then shall this be all my plea,
Jesus hath lived, hath died for me!
O let the dead now hear Thy voice!
Now bid Thy ransomed ones rejoice!
Their beauty this, their glorious dress,
Jesus, the Lord our Righteousness.