Lenten Devotional - First Sunday in Lent

Scripture: Psalm 32:1-7

“Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” (Ps. 32:1)

  Psalm 32 teaches a simple lesson: Trying to conceal one's sins from God is useless and brings needless (often physical) suffering. Confession of one's sin brings God's help and guidance toward the goal of a more righteous life.

  Twelve step groups speak in their fifth and eighth steps about the importance of seeking forgiveness by first identifying the wrongs, to make a list of the nature of their wrongs, admit to these wrongs to God, to themselves and to another human being. They also make a list of those people they have harmed and prepare themselves to make amends. The importance of this step is to not simply acknowledge the obvious wrongs, but the secret wrongs often buried deep within one’s soul which need uncovered.

  The writer of Psalm 32 knows the terror of secret sin, and the joy of being forgiven. "Happy are those..." he begins his psalm. Or, in an older translation, "Blessed are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered."

  

  Unrepentant, secret, hidden sin causes grief, shame, and guilt. The sinner's body "wastes away," and his strength is "dried up," like a potted plant left too long in the scorching summer sun. There is no life or vigor left in him, and his secret sin eats away at him, mind, body, and spirit. God's hand is "heavy" upon him (vvs. 3-4).

  We do not often talk about guilt or shame. Some churches tend to shy away from speaking too often about sin, shame or guilt, trying to distance themselves from the damaging effects of misplaced usage in past generations. I am not advocating a return to fire and brimstone preaching. While still the Psalmist makes it clear that sometimes guilt and shame can and does impact the lives of those around us, even if, not inflicted upon them by others. For the person to move forward in recovery they must acknowledge their sin and be willing to seek forgiveness. Forgiveness is what leads to true joy. In confession, God forgives, and the individual can start life anew. Such new life is what the psalmist calls "happy" or "blessed."

  "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go." (v. 8) This psalm, then, is a composition designed to teach one how to live well, how to live a happy and blessed life. "While I kept silence, my body wasted away...Then I acknowledged my sin to you...I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,' and you forgave the guilt of my sin" (vv. 3, 5). A vital role of the church is to assist those in recovery to achieve this blessed life, which comes through confession and forgiveness.

Lee McDermott, Contributor

Remember in Prayer: Men and Women who find it difficult to reveal their secret sins and find forgiveness in God’s presence.

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